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Gvozdyk Says Zuffa Boxing Cut Him After February Knockout Loss

Zuffa's decision leaves a veteran fighter without a promoter and underscores the company's tight, business-first roster control.

Overview

  • Oleksandr Gvozdyk says Zuffa Boxing terminated his contract after his February 1, 2026 loss to Radivoje Kalajdzic and that the promotion notified him by email.
  • In the February fight Gvozdyk twice dropped Kalajdzic and appeared ahead on the cards before Kalajdzic knocked him out late in the seventh round.
  • Gvozdyk told reporters he had rested and resumed training before learning of the termination, and he says Zuffa had at times discussed a possible return.
  • None of the articles include an on-record response from Zuffa or Dana White, leaving the promotion’s rationale limited to Gvozdyk’s account and reporting.
  • The case highlights Zuffa Boxing’s UFC-style, production-driven roster model and underscores how a single high-profile loss can leave older fighters like the 39-year-old Gvozdyk with few clear options.