After 12 years under the Zuffa and UFC promotion, Anthony Pettis, has parted ways with the UFC to explore free agency.
Today Pettis announced his departure through an Instagram post captioned, “after 12 years with I’ve decided to part ways with the UFC to explore free agency.”
In the post Pettis attached an emotional letter that he wrote to the UFC and Dana White, thanking them for the great experiences over the years.
“Dear UFC,”
“Wow, what a wild ride!”
“Almost 12 years with this company and so many amazing memories. From winning my first world title int he WED at 23 years old to becoming the UFC world Champion at 26 in my hometown! From being on MTV at 23 to the cover of the Wheaties box, I am forever grateful for everything I have experienced and accomplished with this company!!!”
“Dana – thank you for everything you have done for me. I was just a kid from the south side of Milwaykee, Wisconsin, with a big dream. You helped me turn that dream into reality. THANK YOU!!!”
“Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta, Reed Harris, Sean Shelby, Dave Sholler, and Burt Watson, you have helped me and impacted my life and career in countless ways. I will be forever thankful. Everyone at the PI, you helped me take my game to the next level! Everyone that works behind the scenes, I am so grateful for your tireless work, especially on the road, you have no idea how much you are appreciated. Thank YOU!
Last and most importantly the UFC fans …thank you!!! You gave me energy in every fight. I hope I have been able to show you that ANYTHING is possible. I am excited about my future in this sport. I promise I am not done.”
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you all.”
