Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, extensively thought to be one of many best fighters in Bellator historical past, has formally signed with the UFC after his latest launch from the PFL. The 37-year-old Brazilian fighter, a three-time Bellator Featherweight Champion and former Light-weight Champion is about to carry his spectacular resume and expertise to the UFC’s featherweight division.
Patricio “Pitbull” Freire Indicators with the UFC
Patricio Freire’s transfer to the UFC follows months of hypothesis and public requires his launch from the PFL. After Bellator was acquired by the PFL in late 2023, Freire expressed dissatisfaction with the shortage of battle alternatives and requested an unconditional launch. PFL Chairman Donn Davis confirmed Freire’s launch earlier this yr, permitting him to discover new alternatives in blended martial arts’ premier promotions.
Patrício “Pitbull” Freire achieved a rare checklist of accolades throughout his tenure in Bellator MMA. He was a three-time Bellator Featherweight World Champion and in addition held the Bellator Light-weight World Championship, making him the second fighter within the promotion’s historical past to carry titles in two weight courses concurrently. As well as, he gained the Bellator Season 9 and Season 4 Featherweight Tournaments, additional solidifying his dominance within the division.
Freire holds quite a few data in Bellator, together with probably the most wins within the promotion’s historical past (24), probably the most title wins (15), and probably the most fights (30). Within the featherweight division particularly, he has probably the most wins (23), most knockouts (8), and is tied for probably the most finishes (13, alongside A.J. McKee). Throughout all divisions, he’s tied with Michael Chandler for probably the most finishes in Bellator historical past with 15.
Recognized for his knockout energy, Freire has already set his sights on top-tier competitors within the UFC. He has publicly expressed curiosity in going through fighters resembling Alexander Volkanovski, Ilia Topuria, and Diego Lopes, signaling his ambition to climb rapidly inside the division. “I need that belt,” Freire acknowledged throughout a latest interview, emphasizing his readiness to compete towards elite opponents.
UFC President Dana White had beforehand hinted at curiosity in signing Freire, acknowledging his standing as one among MMA’s most completed free brokers. With Freire now formally a part of the UFC roster, followers eagerly await his debut and potential matchups towards a few of the sport’s greatest names.
