This past weekend, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Welterweight Rys McKee announced on his social media that he has been released from the promotion for the second time, ending another short-lived Octagon run in which he won just one of six appearances in total.
“Disappointed to part ways with the UFC, before some roster watch lets everyone know,” McKee wrote. “Silver lining coming.”
Two days later, the Irishman followed up with a more reflective post, signaling optimism despite
the setback.
“Been a fast few days, feel a weight lift since all’s been said & done,” McKee added. “Excited for the next step in my career — plenty left in the tank not shown yet. All I want now is activity, decent communication & my worth in full. Live & die by the sword — 100% finish rate always on the line!”
McKee (14-7-1) was unable to replicate his success on the U.K. regional scene inside the UFC.
“Skelletor” first signed with the promotion in 2020 and drew an impossible assignment in his debut, getting stopped by Khamzat Chimaev in under three minutes without landing a strike (watch highlights). He followed that with a unanimous decision loss to Alex Morono and was promptly released.
McKee rebounded on the regional circuit, going 3-0 with three finishes, capturing the Cage Warriors vacant Welterweight title and defending it once — enough to earn a second UFC stint in 2023.
Unfortunately, the results didn’t improve. McKee dropped consecutive fights to Ange Loosa and Chidi Njokuani before finally breaking through with his lone Octagon win: a wild, one-round doctor stoppage over Daniel Frunza earlier this year. He was then defeated by debuting prospect Axel Sola in his most recent outing.
A third UFC return is exceedingly rare, but at just 30 years old, McKee still has time to rebuild — if he can string together another dominant run.
For now, he exits the promotion with a 1-6 UFC record.
To checkout UFC’s upcoming schedule of events click here.
