Top 10 ranked John Lineker surprisingly released from UFC contract

John Lineker quickly went from co-headliner status to UFC release. In just two weeks, John Lineker went from holding a UFC co-main event slot to not having a contract anymore.
The Brazilian stepped up as a late replacement to co-headline U…

John Lineker quickly went from co-headliner status to UFC release.

In just two weeks, John Lineker went from holding a UFC co-main event slot to not having a contract anymore.

The Brazilian stepped up as a late replacement to co-headline UFC Greenville, before pulling out of the contest himself less than 48 hours before the event. Lineker reportedly suffered a cut that forced him out of the fight.

It seems like the UFC wasn’t happy about his withdrawal, because according to MMA Junkie, Lineker has since been released from his UFC contract.

The popular slugger known for his entertaining brawls, fought 16 times with the UFC dating back to 2012. He also holds the record for most knockdowns at 135 lbs and lighter. The number 10 ranked bantamweight has won eight of his last 10 bouts, making this release even more surprising.

His only two losses in the last five years are to former champion T.J. Dillashaw, and his last outing against Cory Sandhagen.