Anthony “Rumble” Johnson was released by the UFC immediately after his loss against Vitor Belfort at UFC 142. Although “Rumble” was coming from back to back wins prior to this last defeat, UFC President Dana White explains that the major reason why Johnson was dismissed was because it was his third time he failed to make weight. This almost ruined the UFC 142 co-main event, which could have ruined pay-per-view sales.
From Dana White:
“This is his third time…three strikes and you’re gone. That was one of the most unprofessional things I’ve ever seen. The guy was at 170 pounds. He moved up to 185 pounds so this wouldn’t happen anymore, and this is the worst weightcutting disaster he’s ever had. He almost ruined the co-main event here in Brazil. I don’t know what else to say about that one. I’m not happy about it. This is his third time. Listen, the guy was having problems making 170 pounds. He wanted to stay at 170 or whatever his deal was. You go to 185, and you blow it as bad as he blew it? That’s bad, man. I don’t dislike the guy…I like him very much actually. When you talk to Anthony Johnson, he’s a good guy. I don’t know who you blame in this one. Do you blame him? Do you blame his team? Do you blame his camp? I mean who takes the blame in this one? Ultimately, you’re a grown man. You’re responsible for your own actions.”