UFC has let go of Sage Northcutt, on the heels of scratching virtually the entire flyweight division. With the exception of Henry Cejudo and a few flyweights, mostly for monetary purposes.
What does this spell for the future of the largest Mixed Martial Arts promotion?
With the most recent move of the UFC, letting go of “Super” Sage Northcutt, a lot of people are left with a ton of questions, and speculation.
Northcutt coming off of a three-fight win streak, in his last fight against Zak Ottow, Northcutt won via knockout by way of punches in the second round.
If this had been a loss, it would be somewhat understandable.
Since Sage Northcutt entered the octagon, October 3 2015, he’s had one knockout, one technical knockout, three decision wins, and one submission.
While accumulating those wins, Northcutt only has two losses under the UFC banner.
Both losses came from submissions, one from Bryan Barberena, and the other by fellow standout Mickey Gall.
Not only is Sage Northcutt an upcoming talent, but he is also beyond marketable.
He is a living Ken doll, and most likely one of the nicest, more respectful fighters on the roster.
This could be a reason as to why, not his marketability, but his non-aggressive, nice guy attitude before and after a fight.
Northcutt is all smiles, win or lose, he always is respectful to his opponents, and that may not be the number grabbing, the UFC now loves.
Dana White has spoken about cutting Northcutt on the UFC UNFILTERED podcast, and his reasoning is Sage Northcutt is young and needs some work.
“Sage is young, and Sage needs some work. Let him get some work in some other organizations, and we will see where this kid ends up in a couple of years. Maybe we will pick him back up again”
What bothers me, is the lack of ranking, and the uprising of personalities for entertainment value.
The virtual distinction of the flyweight division, after Demetrious Johnson lost his belt to Henry Cejudo via split decision, which hardly happens in the UFC.
Gone are the days where “you have to beat the champion, to be the champion”, as per Dana White.
Instead of marketing the flyweights, after Cejudo beat Johnson and having a new champion, they market a super fight between Henry Cejudo and TJ Dillashaw.
Yes Johnson is now with One Championship, but the rest of the flyweight division is not, yet.
What will happen if Cejudo wins, and shocks so many people doubting him?
Henry Cejudo would remain flyweight champion and eventually be stripped, TJ Dillashaw would not have a division to defend his belt against.
It all makes little to no sense, and spells a scary future for any fighter, on the roster, or upcoming talent.
Hopefully, the UFC has something else in mind, and a future superstar to promote that we are unaware of.
Stay tuned to MMA UK for any and all updates.