Ahead of Bellator 297 in Chicago this Friday night, former lightweight and current featherweight champ Patricio Pitbull says he’s “ready to make history.”
Pitbull (35-5) is looking to do just that by dropping to bantamweight in attempt to secure a title in a third weight class. The idea of a “Triple Champ” isn’t a new concept, but to date, no one has managed it in a major MMA promotion.
That’s something the Brazilian, formally Patricio Freire, plans to change.
“I’ve been the champ for many years at featherweight here in Bellator. I went up to 155, knocked out Michael Chandler in one minute, vacated the belt, Patricky Pitbull won it, my brother,” Pitbull noted during Tuesday’s Bellator 297 media day. “And this opportunity arrives, to fight for the 135 pound bantamweight title against Sergio Pettis. I’m grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait.”
According to Pitbull, he’s lost the weight the healthy way to get to 135, and the pounds have simply fallen off it seems.
“I can’t believe how easy this process of going down a weight class has been. I’ve been on this diet since I beat the RIZIN world champ, Kleber [Koike], back in last year. I’m only eight pounds over. It’s never been easier. It’s easier making this weight than it was for me to make featherweight. I’m great, I’m ready, and it was easy, easier than ever. Easier than making featherweight. And I’m ready to shock the world.”
For many, Triple Champ status would make Pitbull one of the rare names outside the UFC to enter into the GOAT conversation, alongside heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko. But the 35-year old sees the potential for yet another title, in Bellator’s forthcoming flyweight division.
“First I have to get the victory. I don’t know, we have Patchy Mix as the interim champion,” said Pitbull, asked about his future plans. “Then maybe go to the fourth belt. I don’t know. We’ll have to see what will happen. I’m feeling great. I’m fresh, I’m good.”
In July, Bellator heads back to Japan, just as they did this past December, cross-promoting with RIZIN Fighting Federation. Pitbull was on that card, and if he has that way, he’ll return to Japan later this year. “Oh yeah! Every year,” he exclaimed.
Watch the full Bellator 297 media day scrum with Patricio Pitbull above.
