Former Bellator double champion, Patricio Pitbull could be extremely 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 kicked up a fuss and revealed that their contracts haven’t been honored as they haven’t been offered fights.
One of which was current Bellator featherweight champion, Patricio Pitbull, who has consistently called for his release from the company as he wants to finally sign for the UFC after years of calls from the fans.
This past Tuesday, Pitbull’s calls were finally answered when PFL CEO, Donn Davis announced that the Brazilian has been released from the promotion.
Ilia Topuria tops Patricio Pitbull’s wish list for his UFC debut
Following the 37-year-old’s release from the PFL, fans are excited at 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 double champion and he would likely be a welcome addition to the 145lb division.
Having said that, Pitbull does have a history with current UFC star, Michael Chandler as the two met back at Bellator 221 when Pitbull knocked ‘Iron’ out in the first round of their lightweight title fight.
Earlier this week, Pitbull seemingly called out Alexander Volkanovski for his potential debut in the UFC, however, he has now revealed his three-man hit list.
“I think it would be a pretty (ideal) story if I start against someone who’s big, but I don’t really care who’s the first one that they put in front of me. I’m just going to go there and do what I want to,” Pitbull told The Ariel Helwani Show.
“Let’s do that fight (against Volkanovski), he is the number one contender, I want that belt and he’s the guy.
“No, (he wouldn’t be my top choice), (Ilia) Topuria is my top choice. Champion vs Champion. Diego Lopes (would be my third choice), he’s a good one,” he continued.
How likely is it that Pitbull fights for the title in his UFC debut?
After his incredible title defense against Max Holloway at UFC 307, Ilia Topuria had an impromptu face-off with former foe, Volkanovski, suggesting that the Spaniard will defend his title in a rematch next.
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 was capped off with a win over Brian Ortega.
Although it would be surprising for Pitbull to fight for the title on his UFC debut, it happened in 2024 when Kai Asakura signed with the promotion and debuted in a flyweight title fight against Alexandre Pantoja.
With the Brazilian already 37 years old, if the UFC agrees a deal with him, they will likely want to fast-track him due to his age.