MMAJunkie recently reported that Josh Barnett had been released by the UFC, but speaking to ESPN, Barnett stated that he had not yet been let go by the promotion but was currently in negotiations for his release.
“It’s true that I have asked for my release and we are discussing the terms now,” Barnett said. “Zuffa has been fantastic and above-board since I re-signed with the company. Every promise made has been kept and I have no disparaging words for them.”
Barnett also said that he is seeking his release due to the role of USADA in the UFC and his mistrust in the drug-testing agency. Barnett failed an out-of-competition USADA test in December of 2016, and despite putting forth evidence that the failure was a result of a tainted supplement, USADA still looked to suspend the former champion. Barnett took the issue to an arbitrator to settle the dispute and ultimately won thus he didn’t receive any punishment. That victory wasn’t enough to make Barnett feel comfortable enough to return to operating under the USADA.
“After everything I went through with USADA, and my vindication in that case, I don’t feel comfortable giving the control necessary to USADA that would continue my career in the UFC”.