"It's like a Catch-22"- Ex-UFC fighter shares insights from personal experience on Bellator stars’ struggles with delayed fights post-PFL merger

Following the PFL’s acquisition of Bellator earlier this year, several fighters, including Patchy Mix, Corey Anderson, and Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire, have voiced frustration over prolonged inactivity and a lack of communication regarding their careers. Fighters have claimed that promises made during the merger—including multiple championship events—have largely gone unfulfilled.

Despite assurances from PFL Co-Founder Donn Davis of a robust Bellator Champions Series, the plan fell short, with fewer events and diminishing Bellator branding. Upcoming events, like the Jan. 25 fight card in Dubai, are marketed as PFL-centric, further sidelining Bellator's identity.

In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, former UFC fighter Corey Anderson reflected on his experiences with both organizations, empathizing with fellow fighters:

“I left the UFC when I asked for a release and that was another frustration it wasn't not getting a fight it was they was offering me fights but it wasn't the fights I wanted and the money wasn't worth it. So when I asked if I can get a pay raise or whatever they said no you're gonna get this you're gonna sit. It was like, 'all right I'm tired of fighting this battle, can I go somewhere else and get treated better?' and I did [move to Bellator]."

He further added:

"Now I did that with Scott Coker and all that but now with Don Davis and stuff I'm back in that situation but at the same point... I know even if I was to go back to UFC the money wouldn't be near what I'm making, you know what I'm saying? Like if I get one fight here I make more than I make in three or four fights on UFC. So it's kind of like a catch 22 but at the same time like I said I made my money now and I'll Save it up to the point where if I didn't fight again... I wouldn't be upset."

Check out Cory Anderson's interview below (26:00):

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Patricio Freire eyes UFC move amid PFL frustrations

Patricio Freire recently revealed that despite his requests to be released from his PFL contract, the organization has not granted his exit. Speaking with Ariel Helwani, Freire shared his aspirations to fight in the UFC and build on his legacy:

"Now, for me it's about legacy. I want to fight in the UFC... When Dana White doesn't want someone, he says no. But when he was asked about me in a recent press conference he gave a 'so-so' kind of answer. I'm sure that when I'm free [from the PFL] we will be able to speak more."

Check out Patricio Freire's comments below:

Freire, one of the most accomplished fighters outside the UFC, hopes his track record will secure him a spot in the promotion. As the PFL adjusts to its Bellator acquisition, fighters like Freire face uncertainty about their future, amplifying calls for greater career opportunities.