Former Bellator doubles champion Patricio Pitbull could be very close to finally signing with the UFC following his recent release from PFL.
Since the PFL acquired Bellator in November 2023, several of their big stars have made waves and revealed that their contracts have not been honored because they have not been offered fights.
One of those was current Bellator featherweight champion Patricio Pitbull, who has consistently called for his release from the company as he finally signs for the UFC after years of calls from fans.
Last Tuesday, Pitbull's calls were finally answered when PFL CEO Donn Davis announced that the Brazilian had been released from the promotion.
Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile via Getty Images
Ilia Topuria is at the top of Patricio Pitbull's wish list for his UFC debut
Following the 37-year-old's release from the PFL, fans are excited about the prospect of finally seeing the Brazilian under the UFC banner.
UFC boss Dana White has previously hinted that he would be interested in signing the former Bellator doubles champion and that he would likely be a welcome addition to the 145lb division.
That said, Pitbull does have history with current UFC star Michael Chandler as the two met at Bellator 221 when Pitbull knocked out 'Iron' in the first round of their lightweight title fight.
Earlier this week, Pitbull seemingly called up Alexander Volkanovski for his potential debut in the UFC, but now he has revealed his three-man roster.
“I think it would be a pretty (ideal) story if I start against someone big, but I don't really care who is the first one they put in front of me. I just go out there and do what I want,” Pitbull told The Ariel Helwani Show.
“Let's do that fight (against Volkanovski), he's the number one contender, I want that belt and he's the man.
“No, (he wouldn't be my first choice), (Ilia) Topuria is my first choice. Champion vs. Champion. Diego Lopes (would be my third choice), he's a good one,” he continued.
How likely is it that Pitbull will fight for the title in his UFC debut?
Following his incredible title defense against Max Holloway at UFC 307, Ilia Topuria had an impromptu showdown with former foe Volkanovski, indicating the Spaniard will defend his title in an upcoming rematch.
Aside from Alexander “The Great,” Diego Lopes is seemingly the only other featherweight contender in line for a title shot after his impressive 2024, which capped off with a win over Brian Ortega.
While it would be surprising for Pitbull to fight for the title in his UFC debut, it happened in 2024 when Kai Asakura signed with the promotion and debuted in a flyweight title fight against Alexandre Pantoja.
Now that the Brazilian is already 37 years old, they will likely want to move on from him sooner due to his age if the UFC makes a deal with him.
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