Cheick Kongo's profile was removed from UFC.com today, meaning that his days with the promotion are most likely at an end. It's a little surprising considering his long history at or near the top of the heavyweight division and shows that the UFC is devoted to removing fighters that they consider to be dead weight.

Kongo would leave behind an 11–6–1 record with the promotion, gathered over a seven year span. Despite his long winning record he never managed to fight for a title, often falling just short of contention against fighters like Cain Velasquez and Frank Mir. He'd lost two of his last three fights by KO against Mark Hunt and Roy Nelson, with a decision victory over Shawn Jordan sandwiched in-between. However, before the Hunt loss he was on a four fight unbeaten streak, including a highlight, comeback KO victory over Pat Barry.

It's hard to see him continuing his career outside of the octagon. At 37 and with a long MMA and kickboxing career already behind him, one would imagine that other opportunities outside of fighting may present themselves. However, much like Fitch before him, Kongo is not on a substantial losing streak. And while he may be older, in a paper-thin division like heavyweight, other promotions are sure to come knocking for a big fighter with name recognition.

Hopefully he lands on his feet, wherever they may take him. He's never been a huge draw, but he's put enough time and years into this sport, and had enough success, to deserve what few rewards it has to offer. Whether they be a few big purses fighting over-matched opponents in WSOF, or a chance to open his own gym and train new fighters, or even doing some managing and promoting I will be interested to see where he goes from here.

We will update with confirmations when, or if, they occur.

UPDATE: (via MMAjunkie)