Kelvin Gastelum issues statement after UFC 244 loss, plans to make ‘real changes’

Facing the first losing streak of his career, Kelvin Gastelum believes it’s time for a change.

Gastelum fell to Darren Till by split decision in the co-main event of UFC 244 on Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York City, a result that had to be considered disappointing given the strong five-round showing he had against Israel Adesanya in their interim middleweight title bout this past April.

Known for his relentless pace, Gastelum failed to establish a rhythm against Till and the 28-year-old now finds himself having to deal with consecutive losses. He took to social media late in the evening to address his performance.

“This is disappointing to say the least,” Gastelum said. “But I’m very positive I’m gonna come back next year and make some real changes, changes that will hopefully impact my performances from now on because this was... yeah. Thank you all for your support and I love all you guys, I leave my heart and soul out there for you guys. Thank you.”

Gastelum’s record since moving back up to 185 pounds in 2016 is 3-3 (1 NC), with wins over Ronaldo Souza, Michael Bisping, and Tim Kennedy (a first-round TKO of Vitor Belfort was later overturned to a no contest when Gastelum tested positive for a marijuana metabolite)