The UFC has released several long-time fighters from its roster, including submission grappling specialist Ryan Hall and fan favorite Nick Diaz.
MMA journalist John Morgan first noted the change, pointing out that Hall, Diaz, Joe Lauzon, and Al Iaquinta were all recently marked as “ineligible for rankings”.
Each fighter has been inactive for at least four years, but their removal from the roster was only made official within the past week – without any public announcement from the promotion.
Ryan Hall, 40 years old now, has spent recent years battling a series of injuries that required as many as 19 surgeries.
And, although sidelined for long stretches, he leaves the UFC with a strong record of 5-1, with his only loss coming to former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria.
Nick Diaz’s career spans two decades, having fought in nearly every major MMA organization since his debut in 2001.
After returning in 2021 to face Robbie Lawler, he suffered a TKO loss and has not fought since. Diaz’s recent years have also been marked by struggles outside the cage, including a reported stint in rehab.
While the departures weren’t formally announced, the moves likely signal the end of both fighters’ UFC careers.
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