Kalib Starnes explains backpedalling UFC 83 performance

In an interview with The Fight Network, Kalib Starnes explained that injuries to his leg led to his lopsided loss to Nate Quarry at UFC 83 in Montreal.

"Right now, I have a broken foot [that] I sustained with the first kick I threw in the fight," Starnes said Monday. "My leg is purple and black from my knee up."

To avoid further injuries especially against someone like Quarry who has knockout power, Starnes decided to go the distance.

Starnes also clarified to The Fight Network that he requested a release from his UFC contract. A prior report on Yahoo! Sports indicated that he was cut by UFC President Dana White.

The Canadian fighter will officially become a free agent by the end of the week.