It’s a new year and a new era for MMA fans as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) kicks off the year with an impressive roster, thanks to its recent acquisition of Bellator MMA. This move has created an influx of potential matchups, making this roster perhaps the most talented and deepest outside of the UFC in history. The excitement is palpable as fans eagerly anticipate the clash of champions and contenders from both promotions under the same roof.
The PFL has already announced plans for a major card in 2024, where their champions will take on Bellator champions. This announcement sets the stage for some incredible fights that fans have longed to see. However, beyond the champions, there are numerous other talented fighters from both promotions who are now part of this super roster. Let’s explore some of the most intriguing possible matchups that PFL could book with Bellator fighters at their disposal.
One of the most anticipated matchups is between the PFL’s biggest star, Francis Ngannou, and a Bellator counterpart. With the Bellator acquisition, Ngannou now has several potential opponents. One option is a mixed-rules fight against professional boxer Deontay Wilder, which may seem unconventional but certainly sparks curiosity. Another possibility is a showdown with the 2023 PFL heavyweight champion, Renan Ferreira. However, the most fitting matchup would be against Bellator’s own title holder, Ryan Bader. Bader, known for his prowess in the light heavyweight division, would bring a unique challenge to Ngannou with his boxing and wrestling skills.
The acquisition of Bellator also presents an opportunity for middleweight contender Derek Brunson to face off against the best in his new promotion. With no 185-pound division in the PFL, Brunson’s arrival seemed ill-timed. However, the purchase of Bellator changed everything, as they boast a middleweight class led by undefeated champion Johnny Eblen. A matchup between Eblen’s strong wrestling base and Brunson’s skills would undoubtedly ignite fireworks in the cage. As Brunson nears 40, the clock is ticking, making this fight all the more urgent and exciting.
The PFL’s clash with Bellator also opens up possibilities for a thrilling matchup in the lightweight division. One name that stands out is Shane Burgos, known for his explosive fighting style. His willingness to trade shots makes him the ideal opponent for PFL lightweight champion Movlid Khaybulaev, whose wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills give him an edge. A clash between these two talented fighters promises non-stop action and a true test of their skills in the cage.
When it comes to the women’s division, the standout matchup that cannot be ignored is between PFL’s two-division champ Kayla Harrison and Bellator’s Cris Cyborg. Despite PFL chairman Donn Davis suggesting a fight between Cyborg and Larissa Pacheco, the real money fight lies in Harrison facing off against Cyborg. This matchup is a dream for women’s MMA fans, as it showcases two of the biggest stars in the sport going head-to-head. There are no other opponents in Bellator that come close to matching the excitement and talent that Harrison brings to the cage.
Beyond the champion clashes, there are still many other matchups that fans would love to see. One such matchup focuses on the potential of two rising stars, Brendan Loughnane and Aaron Pico. Loughnane, the PFL lightweight champion, has long been considered a fighter to watch, and his dominant win on “Dana White’s Contender Series” only solidified that reputation. On the other hand, Pico, a former amateur wrestling world champion, had a rocky start but has since found his footing and showcased his skills in the Bellator promotion. A showdown between these two promising fighters would determine who has the higher ceiling and holds more potential for greatness.
With the acquisition of Bellator, the PFL has opened the door to countless exciting matchups that were previously unimaginable. From heavyweight clashes to explosive lightweight battles, these fights have the potential to redefine the landscape of MMA and captivate fans worldwide. As the super roster takes shape, anticipation grows, and the possibilities are endless. MMA fans can look forward to a year filled with jaw-dropping matchups and unforgettable moments inside the cage.
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