Donn Davis defends activity of Bellator fighters, hears from Patricio Freire in response

The PFL brass has broken its silence regarding disgruntled top Bellator talent.

PFL chairman and founder Donn Davis acknowledged for the first time Thursday criticism pertaining to the activity of Bellator champions since the two promotions merged in late 2023.

"PFL has ALWAYS provided all fighters 2 fights a year," Davis wrote in the final version of an X post that was edited several times. "… When we acquired Bellator THEY had ZERO fight events scheduled for their Bellator 210 fighters in 2024. @PFLMMA stepped in and did best we could for them in 2024 … 2025 ALL fighters again (2) fights a year!"

Tweets by PFLMMA

The recent wave of criticism toward the promotion stems from a series of tweets from three Bellator titleholders: Patchy Mix, Corey Anderson, and most vocally, Patricio Freire, who has repeatedly asked for his release.

Minutes after Davis' tweet Thursday, "Pitbull" responded to Davis on X.

"Bellator is PFL’s property, many fighters didn’t fight a single time and many like me only fought once," Freire wrote. "You said you’d honor everyone’s contracts and give them 2 fights this year. You didn’t. You cut over 70% of the roster and had many renegotiate their pay. ... As far as PFL providing everyone 2 fights this year, I really hope that’s what’s gonna happen and not because many more will be cut. I want PFL to succeed, it’s good for the sport and for fighters. That said, I want to leave right away. Can we agree to it this week?"

Freire, 37, is regarded by many as the Bellator GOAT. Since PFL absorbed Bellator, he's competed once. He recently told MMA Junkie that he was told he'd fight on a New Year's Eve event in Japan. However, he found out on social media his proposed opponent would instead be fighting someone else for RIZIN.

"Pitbull" also stressed the overall changes he perceives in the brand since the new ownership took over and his desire to go to the UFC immediately.

PFL currently has one event announced for 2025, a Champions Series event Jan. 25 in Dubai.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Donn Davis defends activity of Bellator fighters, hears from Patricio Freire in response