UFC releases Sean McCorkle following UFC Fight Night 24 loss to Christian Morecraft

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

The UFC has released heavyweight Sean McCorkle following his second consecutive loss in the Octagon, according to multiple published reports.

The former super heavyweight, known more on the internet for his joking ways than for his in cage prowess, was given a shot in the UFC last September in his home state of Indiana at UFC 119. After submitting Mark Hunt in his UFC debut, he was given a co-main event bout against Stefan Struve in Montreal at UFC 124 in December.

A loss to Struve led to a preliminary card bout with Christian Morecraft at UFC Fight Night 24, and a technical submission loss to Morecraft sent him on his way out of the organization. McCorkle commented on the release in a message to Ariel Helwani at MMAFighting.com.

"I want to thank the UFC for giving me an opportunity that I had not earned, giving me very favorable match-ups, and hyping me far more than my talent warranted."

Think he was done there? Of course not, as he added:

"Oh, I'm sorry, I thought was writing a statement for Matt Mitrione."

Penick's Analysis: The release isn't surprising. McCorkle wasn't able to follow up on the momentum from his debut win, and two straight losses in the UFC in most divisions will send a fighter packing. He still has his sense of humor, and you have to admit that's a funny line aimed at Mitrione, who would be more than happy to dish it back to him. That's how McCorkle is, and it's how he was throughout his UFC stint over the last six months. The fact that he got a shot in the first place after being a super heavyweight in Indiana was probably validation enough for him as a fighter, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him get a return invitation if he picks up a few wins back on the regional scene.

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