PFL Parts Ways with Patchy Mix—Is a UFC Move Just Around the Corner?

In a surprising twist, Patchy Mix, the former Bellator bantamweight champion, has officially been released from his Professional Fighters League (PFL) contract. This news has fans buzzing—and many are asking the same question: Is Patchy Mix UFC-bound?

The MMA world doesn’t sit still for long, and neither do its top athletes. Mix is one of the most respected fighters in the bantamweight division, and letting him walk raises a few eyebrows. But what could this mean for his future—and for the ever-evolving landscape of MMA?

Who Is Patchy Mix?

If you're not entirely familiar with Patchy Mix, let's bring you up to speed. The 30-year-old has quietly built an impressive resume in the world of mixed martial arts. Known for his elite grappling and slick submissions, Mix climbed the ranks quickly in Bellator, where he eventually claimed the 135-pound championship.

His record speaks volumes: a winning streak that includes dominant victories over top contenders, Mix has long been viewed as a legitimate threat in any organization. So when a talent of his caliber hits free agency, it's not just interesting—it’s headline-worthy.

From Bellator to PFL... And Now, Free Agent

After Bellator merged with the PFL, many fans were eager to see how fighters like Mix would fit in under the new umbrella. While some transitions were smooth, not all matchups materialized as hoped. Patchy didn't see the cage during his brief time with the PFL, which now makes us wonder if this release was inevitable.

Whether it was inactivity, contract complications, or strategic career planning, the result is the same: Patchy Mix is no longer with PFL, and the door to new opportunities just swung wide open.

Why the UFC Seems Like the Next Stop

Let’s address the elephant in the room—could Patchy Mix be heading to the UFC? While nothing has been confirmed, several signs point in that direction.

• Patchy’s style would be a perfect fit for the UFC’s bantamweight division, which is stacked with talent but could always use another top-tier grappler.
• The timing makes sense. With some big-name UFC fights coming up, this could be the perfect moment for a high-profile signing.
• Mixed has already proven he can hang with some of the best in the world—putting him on a UFC card would generate instant buzz.

In fact, many fans and analysts believe he could quickly become a top-five contender in the UFC’s 135-pound division.

How Would Mix Stack Up Against the UFC’s Best?

That’s a fun question—and one worth thinking about. Imagine Mix facing off against guys like Sean O'Malley, Aljamain Sterling, or Petr Yan. These are world-class strikers, but Mix’s ground game could completely change the dynamic.

UFC bantamweights are known for their speed and technical striking, but tightening that takedown defense is going to be crucial against someone like Patchy Mix. He isn’t just good on the ground; he’s world-class. His ability to dominate positions, control pace, and submit from anywhere makes him a nightmare matchup.

The Bigger Picture: What This Means for MMA

This move goes beyond just one fighter. It represents a broader shift in the MMA world. With Bellator now operating under the PFL umbrella, the game is changing. Fighters are looking more closely at where they get opportunities, better pay, and legitimate shots at championships.

For Patchy Mix, the UFC represents the global stage. It’s the platform every fighter dreams of. If the rumors are true, and if a deal really is "imminent," then fans are in for a treat.

What's Next for the PFL?

Releasing a major talent like Mix sends a strong message. Whether that message is about restructuring, budgeting, or focusing on other divisions, only time will tell. But what’s clear is that PFL is making moves—some of them unexpected.

With the ongoing integration of Bellator athletes into its roster, there’s bound to be some reshuffling. But letting go of a champion-caliber fighter like Patchy Mix could create more questions than answers. Are they making room for someone new? Or maybe they simply couldn't match what the UFC might offer?

Final Thoughts: UFC or Bust?

At this point, all signs seem to be pointing toward a big UFC signing announcement. Patchy Mix is too talented, too exciting, and too marketable to remain a free agent for long. Whether he walks straight into a top-10 fight or takes a “welcome to the UFC” bout first, fans will be watching closely.

The bantamweight division just got a lot more interesting. And if this signing goes through, we might be witnessing the start of a new chapter—for both Patchy Mix and the future of MMA.

So, your move, UFC. Are you ready to welcome one of the most dangerous bantamweights in the game?