Credit: RIZIN

Former Bellator champion and UFC signee Patchy Mix was released by RIZIN earlier this week after an 0-2 run with the promotion.

Patchy Mix was thought to be one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in Mixed Martial Arts at the height of his Bellator bantamweight title reign. After wins over Sergio Pettis, Raufeon Stots, and Kyoji Horiguchi, Mix lost to Magomed Magomedov before signing with the UFC in free agency.

Mix’s highly anticipated UFC debut resulted in what at the time was a shocking upset loss to Mario Bautista at UFC 316.  After a split decision loss to short-notice opponent Jakub Wiklacz at UFC 320, Mix parted ways with the UFC and signed with RIZIN.

Mix’s hopes for a fresh start didn’t go according to plan inside the RIZIN ring, as the former Bellator titleholder lost back-to-back fights, including a TKO loss at RIZIN 52. After an 0-2 start in RIZIN, the promotion has reportedly opted to part ways with Mix.

Patchy Mix released by RIZIN amidst five-fight losing streak

According to MMA publication Dropkick, RIZIN removed Mix from its up-to-date roster and eliminated his contract. As of this writing, it’s uncertain if Mix will re-sign with the promotion on a new deal or explore free agency.

Mix’s last win came against Sergio Pettis at Bellator 301, in what would end up being his final Bellator bantamweight title defense. Before his recent losing streak, Mix won 19 of his first 20 professional fights and was seen as one of the best fighters outside of the UFC.

Now, the 33-year-old Mix will go back to the drawing board as he explores other MMA options. He also remains a cornerman and coach for several of his Xtreme Couture teammates, including UFC star Tatiana Suarez.

Mix’s recent struggles are a brutal reminder of how quickly things can change for a fighter in their career.

Are you surprised by Patchy Mix’s recent struggles? Share your thoughts in the comments!

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM