Former Bellator star Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire has made the leap to UFC, transitioning his illustrious career to a new and challenging arena. For over ten years, Freire built a reputation as an unparalleled force outside of UFC, claiming a double championship in Bellator. Now, with a record of 36-7 MMA and an untested 0-0 UFC, he begins a fresh journey that many had not anticipated.
The phase after departing from PFL and transitioning into UFC was fraught with more doubt and unpredictability than he had imagined. Freire expressed candidly that he and his team were under the impression that signing with UFC would be an immediate process following his release. They were fully prepared for news of him joining the UFC to be made public that same day.
However, reality proved to be different. There were obstacles that needed to be maneuvered around and faced with resilience. One significant hurdle was a key figure within the UFC organization displaying reluctance to sign the veteran fighter. Their concern revolved mainly around Freire’s age, a factor they considered significant.
But in the end, their resistance was quelled and Freire had become a UFC fighter. There had been some contention within the UFC management regarding whether to include him in their roster, but ultimately, they warmed up to the notion. One of the key turnarounds in this decision was Freire’s readiness to engage in matchups that other UFC contenders shied away from.
Emerging ready for the challenge was Yair Rodriguez, boasting a record of 16-5 MMA and 10-4 UFC. He agreed to face ‘Pitbull’ in the ring, setting the stage for an exciting fight scheduled for the 12th of April at UFC 314 in Miami. Freire, on the other hand, expressed disappointment over the attitude displayed by the rest of the UFC division during the fighter allocation process.
Freire didn’t hold back on his critiques, labeling the other fighters as lacking the fortitude necessary for the sport. He asserted that a true fighter takes up any and all challenges, which is why he’s staking his claim in UFC. He warned other fighters from unexpectedly withdrawing from the contest, making a playful threat that he’d play ‘the Boogeyman’ and confront them.
At 37, Freire is well aware of the skepticism regarding his age and durability in the competitive world of MMA. He’s listened to the whispers and the overt commentary, both from those within the UFC and fans. However, he remains unfazed, asserting that advances in science have fueled his physical prowess.
According to him, he has successfully restored his vitality and adopted a youthful mindset, essential for his journey in the UFC. He acknowledged genuine disparities between himself and younger fighters, including speed and explosive power. However, he believes that his experience lends him an edge over competitors who lack his years in the sport.
His legacy remains a primary concern for Freire, who has enjoyed a prosperous career as one of Bellator’s leading figures. That element was a driving force in carrying him towards UFC. But with his feet now firmly planted in the UFC domain, Freire is less concerned with past accolades and more focused on future achievements.
Freire isn’t dwelling on the past nor pondering over how things might look a decade down the line in retrospect. The hyper-focus of his vision is fixed directly on UFC gold. He made it crystal clear that he’s not preoccupied with anything but his imminent challenges, dismissing any distractions centered on legacy or future implications.
He reiterated his unwavering focus on the upcoming fight, attaching prime significance to his debut. For Freire, success in this fight is non-negotiable, he sees it as an important step on his way to claiming the UFC title. He was emphatic about his belief, confidently stating his intention to emerge victorious.
Freire maintains a steadfast certainty about not only competing for the title but also clinching it. He expressed complete confidence in the realization of this goal, pointing out it was the most important thing on his agenda right now. For him, that is where his concentration lies, solidly on the ultimate prize.
Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire starts a new chapter of his career, a chapter in UFC. In the face of doubts, obstacles, and criticisms, he remains undeterred, ready to prove his mettle and add another crown to his legacy. His return to strength, revitalized commitment and focus on future glory signals the arrival of a promising new stage in his journey.
The UFC has opened its doors to a veteran of the sport who carries with him the intention to challenge existing norms and prove age is but a number. With Freire’s entry, the MMA world watches with bated breath to see how his career unfolds. While age and legacy can’t be disregarded, it’s clear that Freire’s spirit and determination will contribute a new and exciting dynamic to the UFC.