Props: KeithJardine.net

Quoteworthy:

"Last week I was let go by the UFC. I was sad to get the news but it was expected. I've always been proud to be a UFC fighter and they have been real good to me. I can't help but to feel a bit like I'm losing a family. As for now, I'm more motivated than ever. I'm going to take a vacation for a week then get back to work. Already, there are a lot of offers for fights coming I'm. Some are exciting. Starting over doesn't sound so bad to me. Although my career is at a crossroads my story is only half written. I have a lot of fight left in me and I continue to improve with every fight. Anyway, I'm best when the chips are stacked against me and I will make it to the top. Thanks to all of my fans."

Keith Jardine reacts to his UFC release following a loss to Matt Hamill at The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 11 Finale back on June 19. The "Hammer" loss was the fourth straight for "The Dean of Mean," who is 2-6 over the span of three years. While he's never been accused of being a boring fighter, he was never able to capitalize on his momentum following big wins over Forrest Griffin and Chuck Liddell. Can the "Mean 1" rise from the ashes in a smaller promotion? Or will he find similar results outside of the UFC? And does anyone think he's a lock for Strikeforce?