5 fighters who may only have 1 more fight in the UFC

UFC 246: McGregor vs. Cerrone [Image via UFC.com]

Being one of the top combat sports promotions in the world, it's incredibly difficult to land a spot in the UFC. However, it's even harder to keep one's position within the company. The promotion is usually quick to cut anyone who isn't fit to be on the roster or will let go of fighters who have problems with contract negotiations not being met, promotion (or lack thereof), overall treatment, etc. Sometimes, fighters even leave on their own accord.

Bryan Barberena says this was the last fight on his contract with the UFC. He says if the UFC doesn't re-sign him, he'll just retire from the sport.

If they bring him back, he likes a matchup against somebody like Robbie Lawler
#UFCColumbus

Over time, fan favorites and former contenders have lost their spot to younger, fresher fighters. It frequently talked about how MMA is a young person's sport. While a career is to some degree always contingent on the next performance, it's especially crucial for the fighters who haven't found much luck as of late.

The downswing of a career is unfortunately part of any sport. Several fighters have lost and worked their way back into the organization, including Chael Sonnen and Brandon Moreno. Strings of losses happen, but fighters can get back on track. It's not the end of their MMA careers either, as other organizations are beginning to catch up with the UFC in terms of mainstream coverage. Some fighters are even opting for companies other than the UFC. With these being some reasons a fighter may find their way off the roster, here are five fighters who may only have one more fight in the UFC.

#5. Donald Cerrone - UFC welterweight contender

Conor McGregor vs. Donald Cerrone at UFC 246

Donald Cerrone is a company man. He's treated the UFC well and the company has treated him with the same respect. Although he hasn't had his hand raised since 2019, after six fights, the company is still allowing him to step back in the octagon to take on fellow veteran Joe Lauzon.

On this date last year, @TheNotoriousMMA showed his sportsmanship after defeating Donald Cerrone at UFC 246 🤝 (via @ufc) https://t.co/1kxRBifwdx

This could very well be the farewell fight that fans have been dreading. 'Cowboy' is one of the most universally liked fighters in MMA. Although the demand to see him perform will always be there, he may have fired his last bullet with his 2019 run for title contention.

Donald Cerrone could very-well have a home in the Hall of Fame based off of his willingness to fight anyone, or his career's longevity. His career is undoubtedly an impressive one, but it's most likely finished regardless of the outcome of the upcoming bout with Lauzon.