As it turns out, Cheick Kongo has decided to leave the UFC on his own terms.

After a seven year, 18 fight stint in the organization, the veteran heavyweight has fulfilled the last fight on his current contract, and will not look to renew.

According to a report by MMAFighting, Kongo’s long-time manager Anthony McGann stated that Kongo turned down a four fight deal just before his UFC 159 loss to Roy Nelson. After the fight, he was not offered another deal, and will part ways with the organization.

Kongo is one of the most experienced UFC fighters, having fought in the promotion since his 2006 debut win at UFC 61. He was 4-1-1 prior to facing Nelson, with a draw due to a point reduction against Travis Browne.

Kongo holds notable career victories over Mirko “Cro-Cop” Filipovic, Pat Barry, and Matt Mitrione. He is ranked in the top 20 of nearly all Heavyweight MMA rankings.

There has been much confusion regarding the cause behind Kongo’s departure, with some media outlets reporting that MMA Elite owner Alden Halpern was his manager and announced his release. This is false, as Mr. Halpern cleared the air regarding the misunderstanding via Twitter:

@mmajunkie I never said nor did anyone else say that I was Kongos manager. You need to change that

— Alden Halpern (@MMAELITE_Alden) May 1, 2013

For the record, We got it wrong..Kongo left the UFC on his own and was not cut. Sorry for the error, Kongo is a great guy, wish him the best

— Alden Halpern (@MMAELITE_Alden) May 1, 2013

MMA Elite simply echoed an existing report regarding the release of Cheick Kongo from a national media outlet. They have never claimed to manage the fighter, and have not sponsored him in his last two bouts.

If you are wondering whether the 38 year old Kongo will continue fighting, manager Anthony McGann has stated that Kongo will continue his mixed martial arts career outside of the Octagon.

Where would you like to see him go?