Patricio Pitbull requires Bellator release to pursue new challenges: “They let me inactivity”

Patricio Pitbull, one of the most decorated fighters in MMA history, is demanding his release from Bellator-PFL due to prolonged inactivity and frustration with management. Renowned for his records, including most fights and wins in Bellator, Pitbull feels the recent merger with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has negatively impacted fighters’ opportunities and careers. Frustration […]

Dec 5, 2024 - 10:00
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Patricio Pitbull requires Bellator release to pursue new challenges: “They let me inactivity”

Patricio Pitbull, one of the most decorated fighters in MMA history, is demanding his release from Bellator-PFL due to prolonged inactivity and frustration with management. Renowned for his records, including most fights and wins in Bellator, Pitbull feels the recent merger with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has negatively impacted fighters’ opportunities and careers.

Frustration Over Inactivity and Broken Promises

After his emphatic knockout victory over Jeremy Kennedy in March, Pitbull was promised a high-profile fight for New Year’s Eve. Initially slated to rematch RIZIN lightweight champion Chihiro Suzuki, he was later informed that Aaron Pico would be his opponent. However, neither matchup came to fruition, leaving Pitbull without a fight for months.

PFL guys seem lost,” Pitbull stated, expressing his frustration with the lack of clear direction under the merged entity. He also pointed out how inactivity has hindered not just his career but others, including his teammate Leandro Higo, whose planned title fight against Patchy Mix was canceled without explanation.

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“Waiting for promises that never materialize has cost us rhythm and valuable time in our careers,” Pitbull explained. He emphasized the urgency of staying active, especially as he nears the later stages of his career.

Legacy and Ambitions Beyond Bellator

With his contract nearing its conclusion, Pitbull is seeking to transition to new opportunities that align with his aspirations. Although financially secure, the fighter’s focus has shifted to his legacy and competing against the world’s best.

“I need to fight in the UFC, face those guys, and prove myself,” Pitbull said. He specifically named Ilia Topuria, the current featherweight champion, as a target, describing the fighter as having exploitable weaknesses. Pitbull also expressed interest in taking on high-profile opponents like Movsar Evloev, Yair Rodriguez, or even former lightweight contender Michael Chandler.

“Throw me against any of them,” he added, signaling his eagerness to test himself in the UFC’s competitive divisions.

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Criticism of Bellator-PFL’s Management

Pitbull’s grievances reflect broader dissatisfaction among Bellator fighters following the merger. Notable athletes like Gegard Mousasi and Douglas Lima have voiced similar concerns, with Mousasi eventually leaving and filing a lawsuit, while Lima re-signed under reduced terms.

Pitbull criticized Bellator-PFL for prioritizing internet celebrities and semi-retired fighters over active athletes who consistently deliver in the cage. He accused the promotion of forcing top fighters to either accept pay cuts or face release, which he believes undermines the sport’s credibility.

“They promised stability after the merger,” Pitbull explained. “Instead, fighters like my brother Patrick Pitbull and Douglas Lima were pressured into unfavorable deals. This is no way to treat fighters who’ve built the organization’s reputation.”

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A New Chapter for Pitbull’s Career

Pitbull remains optimistic about reaching an agreement to secure his release, arguing that holding an unhappy champion against his will would damage Bellator-PFL’s image.

“If they let me go, I’ll get back to what I love—fighting and building my legacy,” Pitbull said. “Unleash me among the lions of the featherweight or lightweight divisions.”

Whether it’s a debut title fight against Topuria or clashes with MMA legends, Pitbull is determined to prove he belongs among the sport’s elite. His next steps could reshape his career and further establish his status as one of the greatest fighters in MMA.