Mike Goldberg issues statement on departure from UFC - 'I’ll forever be grateful for being on this journey'

Many people were surprised to learn that UFC 207 last month was the final time Mike Goldberg would be commentating cageside for Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) after nearly 20 years of service. Even more people were surprised to learn that the promotion did little to send Goldberg off in fashion. After two weeks of silence, Goldberg released the following statement earlier this morning (Sat., Jan. 7, 2016) via Twitter:

What an incredible ride! I’ll forever be grateful for being on this journey with all of you for the last 19 years! pic.twitter.com/reg3APxk9X

— Mike Goldberg (@MFG16) January 7, 2017

"I wish I could respond to every single fan, fighter and member of the media who reached out and showed their support, gratitude and appreciation," wrote Goldberg. "It has been overwhelming and so gratifying! Thank you!!

"Every single UFC, from Ultimate Japan to UFC 207, my primary focus has been on just 2 things! First, to bring passion, energy and raw emotion to our fans around the world, dedicated, diehard fans like none other! Second, to properly represent each and every fighter, from UFC newcomer to veterans with 20 plus Octagon battles, our fighters work so hard and sacrifice so much it was my responsibility to properly prepare and tell their stories!!"

This social media post comes after Goldberg's son pointed fingers at UFC for not putting together some sort of tribute for his father, especially considering all of the work Goldberg has put into the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) during its meteoric rise to prominence.

my dad did so much for the UFC over the past 13 years and they can't even give him a proper goodbye. what a joke @ufc

— kole (@kolegoldberg) December 31, 2016

The reason for Goldberg's departure is still unknown at this time, but it could have something to do with UFC wanting to put together a "Dream Team" in 2017 to move forward under new WME-IMG management. The promotion also brought this guy aboard.

Stick with Mania as more news regarding Goldberg's UFC leave becomes available.