As 2025 winds down, the UFC shows no signs of slowing. The promotion continues to thrive, stacking highlight moments while ushering in the next wave of talent. However, alongside the rise of new stars comes the inevitable reality of the fight business—releasing seasoned names to make room for fresh faces. Among those departures, one of the most notable was Paul Craig.

The truth behind his exit is more personal. The Scottish veteran, after dropping multiple bouts capped by a tough loss in Paris, chose to retire on his own terms. Despite having four fights left on his contract, Craig laid down his gloves, deciding to step away before further setbacks could define his career. Moreover, his departure marked only the start of a wider roster shake-up.

New blood enters UFC ranks in wake of Paul Craig exit

This week in Las Vegas, as Season 9 of Dana White’s Contender Series entered Week 5, the UFC handed out contracts to five prospects, continuing its push to bring fresh talent into the roster. At the same time, the promotion parted ways with several veterans. Their details are as follows:

The latest week of Dana White’s Contender Series showcased several standout performances that caught the attention of Dana White and his team. In the strawweight division, Caroline Foro and Shanelle Dyer kicked off the night with a thrilling battle so impressive that White personally stepped into the Octagon to congratulate both fighters. Foro secured the win, yet the UFC awarded contracts to both women along with several other top performers. Consequently, the following fighters officially earned spots on the UFC roster:

From there, Samuel Sanches continued the momentum with a stoppage victory over Chasen Blair, demonstrating poise and finishing instincts that made him an easy pick for a deal. Lerryan Douglas followed with one of the night’s most devastating moments, landing a left hook on Cam Teague that left no doubt about his future in the promotion. To close out the evening, Steven Asplund needed just 16 seconds to flatten Anthony Guarascio, a lightning-fast finish that secured his place on the UFC roster.

Dana White pledges major UFC fighter pay overhaul following Paramount deal

Last month, Dana White and the UFC announced a groundbreaking seven-year, $7.7 billion media rights deal with Paramount and Skydance / TKO Group, signaling a major shift in how UFC content will reach fans as the ESPN agreement comes to a close at the end of 2025. Starting in 2026, all UFC events (13 numbered cards + 30 Fight Nights annually) will stream on Paramount+ in the US, with select numbered events simulcast on CBS.

As a result, the move effectively ends the UFC’s traditional pay-per-view model in the United States, giving fans access to premium content without additional fees beyond their subscription. Naturally, the announcement sparked questions among fighters who have long depended on PPV points for significant earnings. Would the new model mean smaller paychecks for athletes?

Fortunately, White was quick to address those concerns. Speaking during the DWCS Week 1 post-fight press conference, White revealed that post-fight bonuses will see a significant boost under the new deal. “The low-hanging fruit that’s easy to answer? Bonuses are obviously going up,” White said. “That’ll be big, and forget about the tide rising with all the other fighters—just the bonuses alone will bring millions of dollars to a fighter.”

As the UFC enters its next phase under the Paramount deal, questions remain: Will these changes deliver long-term benefits for fighters? And can the promotion’s renewed focus on OTT platforms turn this move into a lasting success? Share your thoughts below.