The spectacle of UFC Vegas 69 proved that the most unassuming Fight Night cards can swing between being exhilarating and tedious. Unfortunately, the latter was the case for the majority of the event’s main card, except for the thrilling bout between Erin Blanchfield and Jessica Andrade, which redeemed it.
Of all the fighters that graced the octagon that night, William Knight and Jordan Wright delivered the most lackluster performances.
Knight’s match never gained traction, meandering for a grueling fifteen minutes. The fight was a study in tedium, as Knight absorbed a ceaseless onslaught of kicks from his opponent Marcin Prachnio. While Prachnio secured a unanimous decision victory, Knight was left to rue his timidity, offering up an apology for not trying hard.
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William Knight and Jordan Wright’s UFC Dreams Dashed: Cut After Disappointing Vegas 69 Performances
In the co-main event, Jordan Wright, was unable to showcase his skills, as he struggled against Zac Pauga, who himself was a finalist on The Ultimate Fighter. Fans voiced their disappointment on social media, describing it as a lackluster performance by both fighters. Wright’s debut in the UFC light heavyweight division did not go as planned, leaving the 31-year-old disheartened.
Both fighters are currently going through a rough patch, with William Knight winning just one of his last four fights. Knight has faced several setbacks in recent months, including a TKO loss to Devin Clark last April and a loss to Maxim Grishin by unanimous decision. These defeats, along with his loss to Prachnio, have resulted in a three-fight losing streak for Knight.
Although Knight earned his spot in the UFC after a victory on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2020, he has struggled to maintain his momentum. After a win at UFC 253, he lost four of his next six fights in the Octagon. Prior to his up-and-down run in the UFC, Knight enjoyed success in promotions like CES and Cage Fury FC, winning nine of his first ten professional fights.
While Jordan Wright has only managed to secure a single victory in his previous six bouts. Adding to their lackluster performances in the UFC, the promotion has decided to cut ties with both men. Two athletes were removed from the UFC roster on Tuesday evening, according to UFC Roster Watch.
❌ Fighter removed: William Knight
— UFC Roster Watch (@UFCRosterWatch) February 21, 2023
❌ Fighter removed: Jordan Wright
— UFC Roster Watch (@UFCRosterWatch) February 21, 2023
Jordan Wright was a highly-touted prospect prior to his recent string of losses. With an undefeated record of 10-0-1, he made his way to the UFC and won two out of his first three fights with the promotion. Wright’s performances in the Octagon were noteworthy and produced some spectacular highlights, showcasing his potential as an exciting addition to the light heavyweight division.
The UFC’s decision to part ways with Knight serves as a reminder that the promotion values fighters who are willing to seize opportunities and take risks in the octagon.
