Patchy Mix, widely considered one of the most sought-after free agents in the world of mixed martial arts, has reportedly reached an agreement and signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. News further indicates that Mix is expected to make his first appearance for the promotion in the near future, potentially stepping in to rescue a bout on the upcoming UFC 316 fight card.
The announcement of Mix`s free agency came recently from the PFL (Professional Fighters League), confirming that the former Bellator bantamweight champion would not be extending his contract and was free to explore other options. Mix`s departure follows a pattern of prominent fighters encountering contract issues with PFL, including Cris Cyborg and Patricio Pitbull, the latter of whom also recently made the move to sign with the UFC.
Mix is broadly recognized as one of the premier fighters globally in the 135-pound division. His potential integration into the competitive UFC bantamweight roster is anticipated to create several compelling and exciting matchups.
Confirmation of Mix`s potential UFC signing emerged just days after the surprising news of his departure from PFL. MMA journalist Ariel Helwani stated during a broadcast of The Ariel Helwani Show, citing sources, that there was no exclusive negotiation period required and Mix was free to sign immediately. Helwani went on to suggest that Mix joining the UFC was a certainty, with the only question being the timing of his debut, indicating the deal was already done.
Shortly after these reports, news surfaced that Marlon Vera, a former contender for the UFC bantamweight title, had withdrawn from his scheduled fight against Mario Bautista at UFC 316. Subsequent reports suggested that Patchy Mix is being lined up as the replacement opponent for Bautista at the event in Newark. Should this hold true, Mix would make his highly anticipated UFC debut on a significant pay-per-view card headlined by the bantamweight championship collision between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley.
Patchy Mix`s Previous Comments on Sean O’Malley
For several years, fans have expressed a strong desire for the UFC to sign the 31-year-old fighter, particularly during Sean O’Malley`s reign as champion in the division. During that period, many within the MMA community viewed Mix as arguably the top bantamweight worldwide, potentially surpassing the reigning UFC champion.
Consequently, Mix has previously been asked about how he envisions a potential fight against O’Malley unfolding. He confidently stated his belief that he would be able to defeat `Suga` within the first two rounds. With his reported signing, the possibility of this highly anticipated clash becoming a reality in the future now exists.
Benedict Kingsley