Former Bellator MMA Champion Patchy Mix Parts Ways With PFL, Becomes a Free Agent

In a surprising turn of events that's shaking up the MMA world, former Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix is now a free agent. The American fighter, known for his dominant ground game and submission prowess, has split from the Professional Fighters League (PFL) — and fans are already speculating where he might land next.

Patchy Mix: A Rising Star with Undeniable Talent

If you’ve been following the fight scene over the past few years, Patchy Mix has probably been on your radar. The 30-year-old made waves in Bellator with a fighting style that combined sleek jiu-jitsu with solid striking. It wasn’t long before he climbed the ranks to capture the Bellator bantamweight title, defeating top-tier opponents along the way.

His victory in the Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix in 2023 solidified his status as one of the premier fighters in the division. In fact, many considered him the best bantamweight outside the UFC. So seeing him become a free agent has the MMA community buzzing — when a talent like Mix hits the open market, people take notice.

Parting Ways With PFL: What Happened?

The announcement came as a surprise to many fans and analysts. After the PFL acquired Bellator in late 2023, a flurry of roster changes followed. Some fighters were officially merged into the PFL’s lineup, while others, like Mix, were left in limbo. For reasons not entirely explained by either party, Mix and the PFL have now gone their separate ways.

He confirmed the split through a post on social media, expressing both gratitude for his time with Bellator and excitement for what lies ahead. He’s now open to new opportunities — and that leaves plenty of room for speculation.

Could the UFC Be the Next Chapter?

This is the million-dollar question.

Many fans are already imagining Mix stepping into the UFC Octagon. With his grappling-heavy style and proven durability, Patchy Mix would be a fascinating matchup for some of the UFC’s top bantamweights. Imagine him facing off against the likes of Sean O’Malley, Merab Dvalishvili, or Cory Sandhagen — the thought alone is enough to get MMA Twitter buzzing.

However, nothing has been confirmed yet. While the UFC would be a logical move, other global promotions like ONE Championship or RIZIN may also throw their hats in the ring. Mix has options — and he knows it.

Why Patchy Mix Stands Out

Plenty of fighters come and go in MMA. But Patchy Mix is different. Here’s why:

• Elite submission game: With more than half of his wins coming by submission, Mix is a nightmare on the ground.
• Fight IQ: He’s not just tough — he’s smart, often several moves ahead of his opponents.
• Cardio and consistency: Even in five-round wars, Mix keeps a steady pace and rarely falters.

These traits don’t just make him a threat — they make him a fan favorite and a valuable asset for any promotion. Whether it's takedown clinics or grinding battles, Mix brings a unique style that resonates with both hardcore fans and casual viewers.

What’s Next for Mix — and Why You Should Care

It’s one thing when a solid fighter becomes a free agent. But it’s another thing entirely when a reigning or recent champion hits the market. Patchy Mix isn’t just another name in the fight game — he’s a potential game-changer for any roster.

His move also speaks to a broader trend happening in MMA. Fighters are becoming more strategic about where they sign. With multiple promotions gaining traction globally, the UFC is no longer the only dream destination. Now, it’s about flexibility, pay, exposure, and matchmaking.

For fans, this is exciting. We’re likely to see new matchups, cross-promotional possibilities, and maybe even dream fights that weren’t on the table until now.

Timing Is Everything

The timing of Mix’s free agency couldn’t be better. With MMA gaining more mainstream recognition and multiple leagues expanding internationally, the market for top-tier talent is hotter than ever. Promotions are looking for fighters who don’t just win — they want stars who can fill out highlight reels and bring fans to the edge of their seats.

Patchy Mix fits that mold perfectly.

Final Thoughts: A Career Turning Point

MMA careers can pivot in the blink of an eye. One moment you're a champion in a major promotion, and the next you’re fielding calls from half a dozen organizations eager to sign you. For Patchy Mix, that moment is now.

There’s no telling where he’ll land next, but one thing's for sure — whether it’s the UFC, ONE Championship, or another growing promotion, the impact will be felt. Fans should stay tuned because the next chapter of Patchy Mix’s career is just beginning — and it’s already shaping up to be a wild ride.

Who would you like to see Patchy Mix fight next? Drop your dream matchups in the comments and join the conversation. This story is far from over.