Erosa Tells Released UFC Fighters To Keep Pushing

Julian Erosa closed his UFC career with a 91-second knockout of Jeong Yeong Lee at UFC Halloween on Oct. 31 at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, capping a journey that saw the promotion cut him twice before he finally walked away on his terms.

The 36-year-old featherweight has earned perspective that few fighters can claim. Erosa joined the UFC in 2015 after a semifinal run on The Ultimate Fighter Season 22, posted a 1-1 record, and got released. He won six of eight regional bouts but was denied a contract even after he starched Jamall Emmers on Contender Series. A short-notice call brought him back, only for three consecutive defeats — two by knockout — to end his second run.

How Erosa Bounced Back From UFC Releases

Erosa told MMA Mania that fighters who find themselves outside the UFC need to remember what drew them to competition in the first place. He said he used his time on the regional circuit to dominate opponents and rediscover his passion, even when the paychecks were small. "If you actually love fighting, push through it," he said, per the outlet.

The third attempt stuck. Erosa submitted Sean Woodson during the pandemic era and compiled a 9-5 mark across his final stint, becoming one of the featherweight division's most reliable action fighters. He now warns younger athletes against letting urgency force poor decisions. Erosa admitted his own impatience led him to accept fights that set him back. He urged patience and selectivity for those chasing a second chance.

Erosa rides off with a first-round finish and plans to focus on raising his young son.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Twice-cut Julian Erosa offers advice to fighters released by UFC — ‘Keep pushing’