MMA: PFL ends Bellator brand as Pitbull appeals to Francis Ngannou
Patricio “Bullfighting” Freire has called on heavyweight boxer Francis Ngannou to intervene in his contract dispute with the Professional Boxers League (PFL).
Pitbull, 37, hasn’t played since March and requested PFL terminate his contract Last December.
The Brazilian took to social media to harshly criticize the PFL after it was confirmed that the Bellator promotion would be disbanded in its current form.
“Hey Francis Ngannou, do you know all the ridiculous things the PFL does to fighters and sign new contracts?” Pitbull said in a series of posts about the PFL on X.
“Would you like to speak for us? I think it’s time for us to form the PFL Fighters League. What do you think?”
Among the biggest MMA promotions, including the UFC and PFL, no such league exists.
Ngannou did not immediately respond to Pitbull’s message. Ngannou’s profile in the PFL ranks is arguably unparalleled, having previously starred in the UFC and boxing, including two fights in Riyadh with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua fought.
Pitbull is a Bellator veteran who won world titles in two weight classes and was the last boxer to win the featherweight title.
PFL Acquisition Bellator at the end of 2023 The merger launched the Bellator Championship Series in 2024, attracting some of the biggest stars.
Bulldog fight At an event in Belfast, Stopping Jeremy Kennedy improved his record to 36-7.
Shortly after Pitbull vented his frustrations with X, PFL president Donn Davis issued a statement explaining why the Bellator brand was largely discontinued.
“The PFL acquired Bellator MMA a year ago primarily because of its outstanding roster of fighters,” a PFL statement read.
“All future events and content will be PFL branded.
“The Bellator brand has a rich history and will continue to be respected and appreciated through a selection of specialty championships.”
