UFC Roster Shakeup: Fighter Released After Victory

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Apr 23, 2025 7:59 PM ET

The UFC is not a place for comfort. Every fight is a test, and each loss can push a career closer to the edge. While the highs are celebrated on global stages, the lows often come quietly—via email, a phone call, or a line on an updated roster sheet. Today, two fighters who know this grind all too well are no longer part of the UFC roster, according to UFC Roster Watch. Their stories speak to the brutal, unforgiving nature of elite MMA.

Lucas Alexander, 29, a Brazilian fighter nicknamed 'The Lion', recognized for his technical striking and footwork, exits the promotion after a tough 1-3 run in the featherweight division. He trains at Fusion X-Cel Performance in Florida—a gym known for developing well-rounded fighters. His lone UFC win came against Steven Peterson, a fight that doubled as Peterson’s retirement. But it was his most recent outing—a brutal knockout loss to Bogdan Grad—that marked a turning point.

Once seen as a promising striker out of Fusion X-Cel in Florida, Alexander’s run was marred by submission losses and an inability to regain momentum. The knockout defeat signaled the end of a rocky but resilient journey inside the Octagon.

Caolan Loughran, 28, an Irish fighter affectionately nicknamed ‘The Don,’ also departs the UFC. Though his 2-2 promotional record might not turn heads, he showed grit, especially in his final fight—a split decision victory over Nathan Fletcher. A Cage Warriors product, Loughran entered with hype and ambition, but struggled against the UFC’s deep bantamweight roster.

He called himself 'Ireland’s next big thing' and often drew comparisons to Conor McGregor for his vocal personality and fan-friendly approach. He walks away with hard-fought lessons, a highlight win, and unfinished business in the sport.

In the UFC, survival is a privilege. These two now face a new chapter. As Dana White has often reiterated, roster attrition is a reality of keeping the organization competitive and lean. Fighters come and go, and even those with promise can find themselves on the outside looking in as the promotion constantly evolves.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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