Attorney for Josh Burkman submits formal request for WSOF release

Quite a bit has gone on between World Series of Fighting (WSOF) welterweight Josh Burkman and promotion matchmaker Ali Abdel-Aziz regarding the fighter's standing within the last 24 hours. After five fights with the organization -- the most recent being a first-round knockout over Tyler Stinson this past weekend at WSOF 9 -- the "People's Warrior" took to Twitter to reveal his desire to be released from the promotion, saying he feels "they did me wrong contractually."

That, of course, led to Vinny Magalhaes remarking that dealing with Aziz must be a "pain in the ass," to which Burkman agreed (story with tweets here). After that, a back-and-forth between Aziz and Magalhaes escalated with insults and expletives.

Aziz tweeted that WSOF "bent over backwards" for Burkman. He also spoke with Bloody Elbow and MMAJunkie on Friday afternoon to share his thoughts on Burkman wanting to be released and said he felt "betrayed" by his comments and criticism, and that he "expects" Burkman to finish his contract.

The WSOF matchmaker also said "he wants to be in the UFC, but he's got to beat UFC level talent and that's Palhares or FItch."

Burkman has gone 4-1 under the WSOF banner, with his biggest victory coming by way of guillotine over Jon Fitch at WSOF 3. So he has already beaten UFC level talent, and has also once fought inside the Octagon. Should he stay with the promotion he would mostly likely face the winner of WSOF welterweight champion Rousimar Palhares vs. Jon Fitch.

MMAmania.com was able to get a brief statement from Burkman regarding his release:

"My attorney and I have sent a formal request and I'm just waiting on WSOF's response. I feel it is best for all parties involved if I sit back and let the legal process take place."

MMAmania.com will keep you updated on any news regarding the situation as it becomes available.