UFC cutman Stitch Duran last night disclosed, via Twitter, that he has been fired by the promotion.
Duran, who has been a visible presence in the UFC for many years now, was in Chad Mendes' corner for his UFC 189 interim title bout against Conor McGregor.
According to Duran, the decision was made due to recent comments which he made regarding the UFC's deal with Reebok.
@daej81 You will be the first to know that the UFC just let me go because I spoke out about the Reebok deal. Got to look for a new job!
— Jacob Stitch Duran (@StitchDuran) July 21, 2015
The deal with Reebok means that Duran and others like him can no longer carry sponsors on their clothing during fights. A resulting loss of income is something which Duran spoke out about in an interview with BloodyElbow.com earlier this week.
It seems this interview is what has cost him his job with the UFC.
Several prominent fighters have spoken out about the sacking of the well-liked cutman.
Sooo disappointed to hear about @StitchDuran !! He's the man and was my go to guy. Wrapped me for all my championship fights!
— Chris Weidman (@ChrisWeidmanUFC) July 22, 2015
Soooo we the fighters are assed out because @StitchDuran spoke his mind? Smfh when one door closes another opens. Much respect to you Stitch
— Anthony Johnson (@Anthony_Rumble) July 22, 2015
There is only one man I want wrapping my hands and handling my corner in the @ufc That is @StitchDuran best cut-man in the business.
— Tim Kennedy (@TimKennedyMMA) July 22, 2015
@StitchDuran won't b the same man. It has been a pleasure!
— tim means (@MeansTim) July 22, 2015
@StitchDuran nooooo! My favorite cut man! Te deseo lo mejor en el futuro, carnal!
— Ricardo Lamas (@RicardoLamasMMA) July 22, 2015
Picture credit: Esther Lin / SPORTSFILE
