Patricio Pitbull Becomes a Free Agent After Bellator Release
In a significant turn of events for the mixed martial arts (MMA) community, Patricio Pitbull, a two-division champion and one of Bellator MMA’s most decorated athletes, has been released from his contract with the Professional Fighters League (PFL). The announcement was made by PFL chairman Donn Davis, following a series of critical tweets from Pitbull expressing dissatisfaction with the promotion’s recent changes.
Release and Controversy
Donn Davis confirmed the release on social media, stating, "We are releasing Patricio Pitbull. PFL is all about opportunity. I founded this company to create new great opportunities for top fighters." However, this assertion conflicts with the claims of several former Bellator champions who have accused PFL of impeding their career trajectories. Pitbull, who has become increasingly vocal about his discontent, took to social media just hours before Davis’s announcement to air grievances about the PFL’s policies.
In his tweets, Pitbull described the PFL as the "self-called co-leader in MMA," accusing it of reducing fighter salaries by as much as 70% and changing contracts to restrict fighter mobility. He noted the lack of respect for fighters’ contracts and how the promotion is allegedly ghosting certain fighters and their managers. "The self-called fighters-first organization is also changing its contracts so it’s almost impossible for fighters to be free agents," he asserted.
Transition from Bellator to PFL
The timing of Pitbull’s release is particularly noteworthy as it comes amidst a broader initiative to integrate the PFL and Bellator brands following the PFL’s acquisition of Bellator in 2023. Davis previously announced that the PFL would be integrating Bellator under its own brand, marking the end of Bellator as a separate entity after 17 years of operation. This transition has been met with concern and sorrow from several fighters, including Pitbull, who lamented the "painful death" of Bellator MMA.
During this tumultuous phase, Pitbull also reached out to PFL star Francis Ngannou, questioning how the former UFC heavyweight champion would respond to the ongoing issues regarding fighter rights, indicating that he was awaiting support from other prominent fighters.
Pitbull’s Legacy in MMA
Patricio Pitbull’s legacy within the sport of MMA is undoubtedly significant. Over a tenure spanning 15 years with Bellator, he established himself as a three-time featherweight champion and a former lightweight champion. He holds records for the most wins and the most title fights in the promotion’s history, with notable victories against other high-profile fighters like Michael Chandler, A.J. McKee, and Benson Henderson.
With his release from PFL now confirmed, the future of Pitbull’s career remains uncertain. As a free agent, he has several options available, whether that may involve signing with another promotion or continuing to voice his concerns about fighter rights and contracts in the sport.
Conclusion: Implications for MMA
The release of Patricio Pitbull raises questions about the treatment of fighters within the rapidly evolving landscape of professional MMA. As promotions like PFL strive to expand and integrate, the treatment of athletes and their rights remains paramount. Pitbull’s outspoken criticism of the PFL’s practices highlights a growing tension within the industry regarding contracts, fighter autonomy, and compensation. His next move could not only shape his career but also serve as a pivotal moment for discussions about fighter rights across the sport. As the situation develops, the responses from PFL and other fighters will be closely watched, potentially influencing the future dynamics of MMA promotions.
