Pitbull Signs With GFL
Yesterday at 05:00 PM
Global Fight League (GFL) is continuing to bolster its ever-growing roster ahead of its April 2025 launch, adding another familiar name to its ranks with the signing of former Bellator MMA Lightweight champion, Patricky Pitbull.
MMA Fighting confirmed the signing, which was preceded by the Brazilian's release from his contractual obligation with Professional Fighters League (PFL).
"Today I turn 39 years old and I have a lot to be thankful for. It's symbolic for me as I decided to start a new chapter in my career. Per my request, I was released from PFL MMA. Thank you for the memories Stay tuned for my next fight news," wrote the Brazilian bruiser on X.
"Former Bellator MMA Lightweight Champion, most wins in the Lightweight division and most KOs in company history. I'll never forget all the amazing moments I had with the organization. And a couple of fun fights on PFL MMA. I'm excited for what will be coming next.
Is this a sign of a mass exodus looming for PFL?
The promotion's co-founder, Donn Davis, recently went on record to say he wouldn't be holding any Bellator fighters to their contract if they wished to move following his decision to dissolve the company after purchasing in late 2023.
Patricky's brother, Patricio, was recently also granted his release, but he has yet to ink a deal with another promotion, though he has been very clear about his desire to compete inside the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Octagon. As far as his chances of actually getting a deal, that is still very much up in the air, according to Dana White.
Patricky, is currently on a three -fight losing streak and went 0-2 under the PFL banner. Throughout his run with Bellator, Pitbull amassed a record of 16-10, winning the 155-pound title in 2021 by knocking out Peter Queally at Bellator 270 before losing it to current champion, Usman Nurmagomedov a year later at Bellator 288. Pitbull holds wins over Roger Huerta, Benson Henderson, Tatsuya Kawajiri, and Josh Thomson, just to name a few.
GFL — which will be made up of six teams and include 10 different divisions — has already secured deals with several well-known veterans, and will hold its first-ever live draft this Friday (Jan 24, 2025) at 8 p.m. ET.
For more on the GFL 2025 season click here.
