UFC parts ways with 16-fight lightweight veteran

The UFC has released lightweight veteran Thiago Moises from its roster, MMA Fighting reported. The 31-year-old's final appearance came in April at UFC Winnipeg, where he suffered a split-decision loss to Gauge Young.

Moises signed with the UFC in 2018 after earning a first-round knockout victory at Dana White's Contender Series. During his eight-fight UFC tenure, the Brazilian secured finishes in half of his wins, including submission victories over King Green, Christos Giagos, and Melquizael Costa. He competed across multiple weight classes and faced several elite-level opponents, most notably Islam Makhachev, who would go on to become UFC lightweight and welterweight champion. Notably, Moises and Arman Tsarukyan remain the only fighters to successfully take down Makhachev inside the octagon.

Before joining the UFC, Moises held the RFA lightweight title. He departs with a professional record of 19-10, finishing his UFC run at 8-8. While no longer under contract, the promotion retains the option to re-sign him in the future if circumstances permit.