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Larissa Pacheco, former PFL champion, voiced her frustration with how the PFL promoted her rival Kayla Harrison during UFC 307, where Harrison defeated Ketlen Vieira. Pacheco, who famously handed Harrison her only career loss, expressed disapproval of the PFL’s approach, particularly when they used Harrison’s UFC fight to promote Pacheco's upcoming bout with Cris Cyborg on October 19.
In an interview, Pacheco explained that while she respects Harrison, she felt PFL should focus on promoting her as their reigning champion rather than using Harrison, who no longer competes in the organization.
“I thought that was uncalled for, honestly,” Pacheco stated. “I think [PFL] have the champion they deserve... so why do that? Promote me right? Let’s promote the champion. ‘Oh, but Larissa beat Kayla.’ You don’t need that.”
Despite Harrison’s move to the UFC, PFL continued highlighting her past success, leaving Pacheco feeling overlooked. She pointed out that even though she beat Harrison and has an impressive 10-fight winning streak, PFL’s marketing strategy has been noticeably different for her compared to her American counterpart.
“I don’t know if it’s because I’m Brazilian if it’s because I don’t speak English and don’t sell that much, but I feel the difference,” Pacheco remarked, adding that she hopes a victory over Cyborg will change the public perception and PFL’s support.
As she prepares for one of the most significant fights of her career against MMA legend Cris Cyborg, Pacheco believes a win will solidify her status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
“To beat two great athletes — one two-time Olympic champion with all the hype now in the UFC, and a legend [in Cyborg]… What else do I need to say?”
Pacheco is determined to earn the recognition she feels she deserves. She hopes that a win over Cyborg will elevate her career and force promotions like PFL to give her the credit she’s earned as a true champion.
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