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It will no longer be “Showtime” in the Octagon.
Anthony Pettis, the former UFC lightweight champion, announced his departure from the UFC in social media posts Tuesday.
Pettis, nicknamed “Showtime” for his flashy, exciting fighting style, wrote that he would be exploring free agency.
“From being on MTV to the cover of the Wheaties box, I am forever grateful for everything I have experienced and accomplished with this company!!!” Pettis wrote in a statement.
Pettis, 33, fought the final fight on his UFC contract last Saturday at UFC Fight Night: Thompson vs. Neal. He beat Alex Morono by unanimous decision.
After the bout, Pettis made it seem like he would re-sign with the UFC, mentioning he wanted to return to the lightweight division for another run at that title. But now he will seek offers elsewhere.
“I am excited about my future in the sport,” Pettis wrote. “I promise I am not done.”
Pettis (24-10) held the UFC lightweight title from 2013 to 2015. The Milwaukee native was also the final WEC lightweight champion before UFC purchased and then absorbed that promotion in 2010. Pettis owns wins over the likes Stephen Thompson, Donald Cerrone (twice), Charles Oliveira and former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson.
Pettis’ younger brother, Sergio, a bantamweight, left the UFC for Bellator last year.