Fresh off a heartbreaking defeat, Dana White decides not to renew UFC contract of this MMA sensation

In a decision that’s sending shockwaves through the MMA world, UFC President Dana White has opted not to renew the contract of flyweight contender Ariane da Silva. The news comes just days after da Silva suffered a devastating defeat at UFC 316, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

A disappointing turn of events

Ariane da Silva, once a promising name in the women’s flyweight division, has seen her career take a sharp downturn in recent months. Heading into UFC 316, she was already under immense pressure after back-to-back losses. But what truly sealed her fate wasn’t just her performance in the octagon — it was what happened on the scales.

At the official weigh-ins, da Silva missed the flyweight limit by a staggering six pounds, a significant violation in a division where every ounce can tip the balance. Despite the glaring discrepancy, her bout against China’s Wang Cong went ahead. The Brazilian entered the cage with a clear weight advantage but failed to convert it into a win, ultimately falling via unanimous decision.

Dana White makes the call

In the wake of her third consecutive loss and mounting weight issues, Dana White and the UFC brass have decided not to renew da Silva’s contract. The decision, first reported by AGFight, effectively ends the 31-year-old’s five-year tenure with the promotion.

Da Silva joined the UFC in 2019 with high expectations, showcasing flashes of brilliance early in her run. She leaves the organization with a 6-8 record, a résumé that reflects both her potential and her inconsistencies.

What’s next for Ariane da Silva?

While the UFC door may be closing for now, Ariane da Silva’s career is far from over. Fighters in similar situations have found resurgence in other promotions like Bellator, PFL, or ONE Championship. Whether she chooses to continue competing or take time to recalibrate remains to be seen.

For fans and insiders alike, the move serves as a stark reminder of the UFC's unforgiving nature — where performance, professionalism, and discipline all carry equal weight.