After 11 years at the UFC, Derek Brunson has a new cage to fight in. Brunson is a veteran and a force of nature recognized by many. However, some fighters just become synonymous with the UFC. After spending over a decade with Dana White and Co., is it such a surprise that ‘The One’ was among their best?

However, it looks like things may have gotten a bit too old at UFC. Brunson’s contract expired in September 2023. This gave him an opening to go and pursue some of his other interests. Recently, Brunson’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz spoke with The Schmo and opened up about Brunson’s next move. This may have surprised some fans.

Derek Brunson and his new beginnings

Recently, Abdelaziz broke the news to the MMA world. Derek Brunson will no longer compete with the UFC, instead, he’s changed gears. He will now be seen competing for the million dollar price at the light heavyweight division of the PFL. This is hardly the first time UFC fighters have moved onto different organizations and it always results in some sort of uproar or shock from the fans. Here is what Brunson’s manager said in the interview.

“The UFC was amazing to him there, helped shape who he is today, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity he was given. He has to move on and looking forward to what comes next for him.”

Clearly, a level of mature thankfulness has emerged after the parting of ways. Brunson was indeed one of the best middleweights in the UFC for a long time. However, he never ended up becoming a champion. Perhaps this was one of the reasons Brunson decided that it was time to move on.

Also Read: “You Are a Great Human” – UFC World Congratulates “True Winner” Derek Brunson as He Gifts His Mom a Car in Heartfelt Gesture

Fans all around the world had things to say. When Francis Ngannou popularly moved to the same organization, the reactions were loud and wild. Why should anyone expect any less for Brunson? Of course, fans called him out on the move. Not everyone was happy with the decision and most weren’t afraid of stating their opinions online.

Fans react to Brunson leaving the UFC

Some fans called him names, others backed him up. It’s a tale as old as time. ‘The One’ might score a lot of cash if he happens to win the upcoming tourney in 2024. The money could mean an awful lot for the fighter apart from just a fresh start.

Meanwhile, others were a bit more supportive of their favorite UFC veteran.

Finally, some others had serious accusations against Brunson. Was it all about the money for him? These fans seem to think so.

Looks like some complaints are a bit too late. Brunson has already decided to make the move and will most likely be seen in 2024. There may have been a lot of factors and benefits that led him to get associated with the PFL instead. Now, will the fighter create the same hype as ‘The Predator’ did? Nobody knows. UFC fighters have moved to the PFL before but it does make a world of difference when it’s a veteran like Brunson. Will he achieve glory with the organization?

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