Josh Barnett (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

Although Josh Barnett was cleared to return to the Octagon earlier this year, after successfully completing an arbitration case with USADA, it’s being reported the heavyweight’s exiting the UFC.

In a recent report from ESPN, Barnett confirmed he’s requested his release from the UFC. In addition, the former champ said this:

“…Zuffa [parent company of the UFC] has been fantastic and above-board since I re-signed with the company [in 2013]. Every promise made has been kept and I have no disparaging words for them.”

“After everything I went through with USADA, and my vindication in that case, I don’t feel comfortable giving the control necessary to USADA that would continue my career in the UFC.”

MMA Junkie is reporting that the outlet has learned the UFC has agree to release Barnett.

Barnett has been sidelined since 2016 as a result of testing positive for ostarine. But, Barnett’s team was able to demonstrate the positive test was the result of a contaminated supplement , and as a result the heavyweight only received a public reprimand from USADA. The appeal and arbitration process, however, cost Barnett over a year of his career.

The 40 year-old fighter was originally facing up to a four year suspension, due to previous positive tests for banned substances.