Why did Dana White cut Ketlen Vieira despite her top five ranking and recent win? The unexpected release sparked massive backlash online

Just weeks before one of the biggest UFC events of the year, Dana White and the UFC have made another tough round of roster cuts. This time, the decision caught many fans off guard because one of the names released was Ketlen Vieira, who was still ranked No. 5 in the UFC women’s bantamweight division. The Brazilian fighter had recently won her latest bout and was still seen as a serious contender in the division. The news quickly became a major talking point in the MMA world because UFC usually does not release fighters sitting inside the top five rankings. Vieira’s exit came alongside the departures of Ivan Erslan, Tuco Tokkos, and Daniel Barez.

Reports about the cuts were first discussed widely across MMA media and fighter tracking updates after recent UFC roster changes became public. For longtime UFC fans, this move once again showed how quickly things can change inside the company. The promotion has always been known for making hard decisions, no matter how popular or highly ranked a fighter may be. Fighters only stay safe if they continue delivering results, excitement, and momentum.

Ketlen Vieira and Colby Covington among biggest names removed during latest UFC roster cuts

Ketlen Vieira’s release surprised many people because she had just earned a decision win over Jacqueline Cavalcanti during the event headlined by Arnold Allen. That victory marked her 10th UFC win after spending nearly a decade with the promotion.

The 34 year old built one of the strongest resumes in the women’s bantamweight division. During her UFC run, she defeated big names like Miesha Tate, Holly Holm, and Cat Zingano. Her recent losses came against former champion Raquel Pennington and current champion Kayla Harrison.

The other released fighters had struggled more inside the octagon. Daniel Barez managed only one win in four UFC fights since joining in 2023. Ivan Erslan earned one victory across four appearances, while Tuco Tokkos leaves with a 1 and 3 UFC record.

Another major name connected to recent UFC exits was Colby Covington. The former welterweight title challenger reportedly informed UFC officials about his retirement decision before being removed from the rankings. Former women’s bantamweight title challenger Mayra Bueno Silva and New Zealand fighter Brad Riddell were also part of separate roster changes.