Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, a dominant force in Bellator MMA, has secured his release from the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and is widely expected to sign with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). This move marks a significant shift in the MMA landscape, as Pitbull, a two-division champion in Bellator, seeks new challenges and a chance to solidify his legacy among the sport’s elite. His departure from the PFL comes after public criticism of the organization, culminating in a social media post comparing his situation to Holly Holm’s recent release from the UFC, advocating for respectful treatment of veteran fighters. The PFL’s simultaneous decision to distance itself from the Bellator brand, removing references from its event structure and titles, further fueled speculation about Pitbull’s discontent and eventual exit.
Pitbull’s arrival in the UFC generates considerable excitement and speculation regarding potential matchups. At 37, while a championship run might be a long shot, his skill, toughness, and reputation guarantee compelling fights. His aggressive style and proven finishing ability promise fireworks inside the Octagon. Several intriguing opponents stand out as ideal first tests for Pitbull in the UFC, each offering a unique storyline and stylistic clash. These potential matchups range from fellow former Bellator champions to established UFC veterans and rising contenders.
A clash with Michael Chandler, another Bellator legend, presents a compelling narrative. While their weight classes historically differed, the possibility of Pitbull moving up to lightweight for a showdown with Chandler offers an exciting prospect. This fight would resonate with fans familiar with their Bellator careers and deliver a guaranteed action-packed battle given both fighters’ aggressive tendencies. Jose Aldo, a Brazilian icon and former UFC featherweight champion, represents another highly anticipated matchup. A fight between these two Brazilian legends has been a dream for many MMA fans, and Pitbull’s arrival in the UFC finally presents the opportunity. Aldo would likely need to return to featherweight, but the prospect of witnessing these two skilled strikers battle it out is undeniably enticing.
Max Holloway, a former featherweight champion known for his relentless pressure and volume striking, poses another intriguing challenge. While Holloway is transitioning to lightweight, a potential matchup with Pitbull, potentially even for the symbolic “BMF” title, would be a thrilling spectacle. Both fighters are known for their durability and willingness to engage in high-octane battles, creating a recipe for a memorable encounter. Alexander Volkanovski, the current featherweight champion, represents the ultimate test for Pitbull. Pitbull has already expressed interest in facing Volkanovski, and although the champion is likely targeting a rematch with Ilia Topuria, a fight with Pitbull presents a compelling alternative. This matchup would immediately catapult Pitbull into title contention and offer a chance to prove himself against the division’s best.
Cub Swanson, a seasoned veteran known for his exciting fights, provides a different kind of challenge. While Swanson has contemplated retirement, a fight against a high-profile opponent like Pitbull could entice him back into the Octagon. This matchup offers a stepping stone for Pitbull to establish himself in the UFC featherweight division and potentially earn a spot in the rankings. A victory over Swanson would be a significant statement, while a loss would provide valuable insight into Pitbull’s current standing in the competitive UFC landscape.
Finally, Josh Emmett emerges as perhaps the most practical first opponent for Pitbull. Emmett is a tough, ranked contender seeking to climb back up the featherweight ladder, while Pitbull aims to make an immediate impact in the UFC. This matchup offers both fighters a clear path towards title contention. A win for Pitbull would place him within striking distance of a title shot, a highly motivating factor for the veteran fighter. The variety of potential matchups for Pitbull underscores the excitement surrounding his arrival in the UFC. Each fight offers a unique storyline and a chance for Pitbull to showcase his skills against some of the best in the world. Regardless of his first opponent, Pitbull’s presence in the UFC promises to inject new energy into the featherweight division and deliver thrilling fights for fans.
