Jimmy Smith announces departure from UFC

Jimmy Smith’s time with the UFC has come to an end.

The veteran color commentator announced Tuesday via social media that the UFC chose not to re-sign him after completing his first year of work with the promotion.

“Now New Year has arrived I’m afraid I have to announce that the UFC has declined to re-sign me and my time with the promotion has come to an end,” Smith wrote. “I just want to thank everyone at the promotion who made me feel welcome and appreciated at every single show.”

Smith signed with the company last January and made his Octagon-side debut the following February at UFC 221 in Perth, Western Australia, before going on to work several events last year. Prior to 2018, Smith was the longtime color commentator for Bellator MMA as well as a former professional fighter himself.

He has also provided commentary and analysis for boxing and American Ninja Warrior.

Smith, 41, shared a lengthier post on Instagram, providing further well-wishes to his co-workers, fighters, and fans. He gave no indication as to where he might pop up next:

“To the UFC fighters who give everything they have to this sport: I want you to know I did everything I could to honor and respect you every time I was privileged to watch you work,” Smith wrote. “Your sacrifice is what makes this sport amazing to behold. I am humbled by your skills and courage every time.

“Most of all I want to thank the UFC’s incredible fans. You made me feel welcome from the start and I was proud to have the opportunity to entertain you for at least a little while. Hearing a rabid Australian shout ‘WELCOME TO THE UFC JIMMY!!’ at my first event in Perth is an experience I will remember for a long time. Whenever I finished a show and we congratulated each other behind the scenes I always thought ‘Only matters if the fans liked it.’ You are an amazing group and no matter what I did you were always foremost on my mind. The new year always brings change. I have no idea what is coming next but 2018 was an amazing ride and hopefully there is more to come. As a great band once said... Adios Amigos.”