Bellator legend Patricio “Pitbull” Freire is demanding an immediate release from the PFL after months of frustration.
Pitbull, who has been left in limbo due to cancelled events and unclear fight schedules, voiced his displeasure on X, criticising the promotion’s handling of its integration with Bellator. He is now seeking to part ways with the PFL to explore a possible UFC offer.
The tension escalated after PFL founder Donn Davis commented on a recent Q&A with MMA Fighting. When asked about his favourite promotions, he remarked that Pitbull didn’t forget in his decision to leave the organisation.
Patricio Pitbull Calls Out PFL’s Donn Davis Over MMA Ignorance and Requests Immediate Release
During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Pitbull took aim at PFL President Donn Davis. This was when he said;
“Donn Davis is an investor and promoter, but he said he doesn’t watch MMA or the fights. How can you expect people to watch if you don’t?”
“They haven’t kept their promises to honor fighter contracts and have cut many people. That creates insecurity for all of us. There’s a lot they need to fix, but I’m not waiting around for them to get it right.”
As of now, the PFL has not responded to Pitbull’s request for a release. He has not fought since his TKO victory against Jeremy Kennedy at Bellator Champion Series: Belfast in March.
Pitbull, one of the most iconic fighters in Bellator history, is known for his knockout victory over Michael Chandler for the lightweight title at Bellator 221 and is widely regarded as the promotion’s greatest fighter with multiple accolades at featherweight.
Pitbull Calls Out PFL for Business Practices as He Seeks Release and Eyes Potential UFC Move
Pitbull debuted in Bellator at Bellator 15 in 2010, defeating Wilson Reis in the Season 2 Featherweight Tournament. Over his Bellator career, he has defeated notable fighters like AJ McKee, Juan Archuleta and Emmanuel Sanchez.
Pitbull is not the only fighter to criticise the PFL’s business practices. UFC CEO Dana White has also been in a war of words with PFL’s Donn Davis, mocking the promotion’s low viewership.
As Pitbull evaluates his future, he may bring a new dynamic to the UFC’s featherweight division, especially with UFC champion Ilia Topuria planning to move to lightweight, potentially vacating the title.
For now, Pitbull hopes Davis will honour his request for a release from his PFL contract. As 2025 approaches, the PFL-Bellator relationship remains rocky.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
