Hermes Franca released from UFC contract

Noted UFC lightweight veteran Hermes Franca has been released from the organization following a subpar performance late last month against top contender Tyson Griffin at UFC 103. Fiveknuckles.com was informed of the release earlier today though official sources close to the fighter.

On the heals of a seven fight winning streak, Franca (19-8) has lost 3 of his past 4 contests dating back to July of 2007; dropping losses to Sean Sherk, Frankie Edgar and the aforementioned Griffin over that span.

The heavy-handed Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt holds notable career wins over, Caol Uno, Ryan Schultz, Jamie Varner, Nate Diaz, Spencer Fisher Marcus Aurelio and current current WEC featherweight champion Mike Brown.