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Patricio Pitbull, one of the most decorated fighters in MMA history, has joined the chorus of voices criticizing the PFL following its merger with Bellator. The former Bellator featherweight champion expressed deep frustration over the lack of activity and opportunities for fighters since the merger, describing the situation as a “disaster to the sport of MMA.”
Pitbull has fought only once under the PFL banner, successfully defending his title against Jeremy Kennedy at Bellator Belfast in March. Like fellow former Bellator champions Corey Anderson and Patchy Mix, he has been left disappointed by the promotion’s inability to provide consistent fight opportunities. Taking to Twitter, Pitbull highlighted his grievances, including canceling planned events and unfulfilled promises.
“I haven’t fought since [March],” Pitbull stated. “I wanted to fight [three times] this year, but I was told I’d have to wait until Dec. 31 and found out online my opponent would fight someone else. Then they had a replacement, I bring people over, spend more money with the camp and there’s no fight.”
He further criticized the PFL for prioritizing celebrity and semi-retired fighters over its active roster, noting that many athletes have been cut or forced to take pay reductions.
“How can you become No. 1 in the world if you don’t stage events and don’t want to pay fighters?” he asked.
The frustration stems not only from Pitbull’s situation but also from his concern for the sport and his fellow fighters.
“This is wrong. We need answers, we need the fighters and fans to be respected. This is not a game or just some business; these are people’s lives we are talking about,” he added.
In response, PFL co-founder Donn Davis announced plans to revamp the promotion’s event schedule with a new Championship Series set to launch on Jan. 25 in Dubai, headlined by Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes. However, Pitbull remains skeptical, emphasizing the need for regular opportunities for fighters, especially as his own competitive window narrows.
At 37, Pitbull’s legacy is undeniable, with victories over Michael Chandler, A.J. McKee, and Juan Archuleta among his achievements. Still, he focuses on ensuring the sport he has dedicated his life to remains viable and fair for all fighters.
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