UFC Officially Parts Ways With Former Two-Division Champion BJ Penn

BJ Penn’s almost two-decade run with the UFC is officially over, as the promotion released the 40-year-old.

Penn was let go by the promotion that he has called home since he first turned pro back in 2001, winning both the UFC lightweight and welterweight titles. “The Prodigy,” though, is currently on a seven-fight losing streak and has had issues outside the Octagon, as well.

Earlier this year, Penn was being investigated for possible domestic violence. He also was caught on film being knocked out during an incident at a Hawaiian bar.

Penn’s last official victory came in 2010 when he knocked out fellow former champion and hall of famer Matt Hughes at UFC 123.

In a text message sent to Yahoo! Sports’ Kevin Iole, UFC president Dana White confirmed that Penn had been released. He was rumored for a potential showdown with Nik Lentz later this year.