Patricio Pitbull's PFL Release: Ariel Helwani Show Breaks the News
Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire has been released from his PFL contract, as reported on The Ariel Helwani Show. This move frees him to negotiate with the UFC, though a potential right-to-match clause by PFL could impact his future plans.
Breaking News on Patricio Pitbull's Release
In a significant update for the MMA community, the latest episode of The Ariel Helwani Show covers the breaking news of Bellator featherweight champion Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire's release from his Professional Fighters League (PFL) contract. The announcement, confirmed by PFL chairman Donn Davis on January 14, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for Pitbull, who has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the organization. The host discusses the implications of this release, noting that Pitbull is now free to explore opportunities with other promotions, most notably the UFC.
Details of Pitbull's Frustrations with PFL
During the segment around the 2:30 mark, the discussion delves into Pitbull's recent public criticisms of PFL. The fighter expressed frustration over event cancellations and perceived unfair treatment, including last-minute notifications about canceled fights. A specific grievance highlighted was the cancellation of a scheduled bout, with Pitbull learning about changes through online sources rather than direct communication from PFL. This lack of transparency and respect, as discussed in the video, was a significant factor in his request for release from the contract.
PFL's Response and Contractual Nuances
At approximately the 5:45 timestamp, the show addresses PFL's stance on the release. Donn Davis's statement emphasized the organization's commitment to providing opportunities for top fighters while confirming Pitbull's departure. However, a point of contention raised in the episode is the potential inclusion of a right-to-match clause in the release terms. This clause could allow PFL to match any offer Pitbull receives from another promotion, such as the UFC, which adds a layer of complexity to his future negotiations as discussed on air.
Pitbull's Aspirations for UFC
Towards the latter part of the segment, near the 8:10 mark, the focus shifts to Pitbull's aspirations to join the UFC. Having been a dominant force in Bellator, Pitbull has openly expressed a desire to test himself against top UFC featherweights like Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria. The host underscores that this release could be the gateway to fulfilling those ambitions, potentially setting the stage for high-profile matchups that fans have long anticipated. The discussion highlights Pitbull's drive to build his legacy in the sport's biggest promotion.