Patricio `Pitbull` Freire, the highly-regarded former Bellator champion, is reportedly slated for his second appearance in the UFC Octagon. This upcoming fight offers Pitbull another chance to secure his first victory with the promotion, following his unanimous decision loss to former title challenger Yair Rodríguez in his UFC debut at UFC 314. That loss ended a successful four-fight win streak he had built in Bellator, including a notable rematch win over AJ McKee at Bellator 277.
Pitbull`s move to the UFC came after navigating a contract dispute with the PFL, ultimately leading to his release and subsequent signing with the premier MMA organization. While his initial UFC challenge was significant, his reported next opponent represents another tough test in the division.
Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Reportedly Set to Face Dan Ige at UFC 318
Reports emerged on Tuesday indicating that Pitbull is scheduled to face UFC featherweight contender Dan Ige at UFC 318, which is expected to take place in Chicago. Brazilian MMA journalist Léo Guimaraes was the first to report this potential booking.
Dan Ige is set to return to action after his recent controversial TKO victory over Sean Woodson at UFC 314. This win helped Ige rebound from a difficult period where he had lost three of his previous four fights, including a short-notice bout against Diego Lopes at UFC 303.
A consistent presence in the featherweight rankings, Ige is working to climb back into title contention. He has secured notable wins against fighters such as Nate Landwehr, Damon Jackson, and Andre Fili. Since competing on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2017, Ige has become a popular fighter among UFC fans.
Following his win at UFC 314, Ige publicly expressed his desire to fight Pitbull, acknowledging the former Bellator two-division champion as a `legend` of the sport. At the time of his departure, Pitbull was widely considered the greatest fighter in Bellator history.
Featherweight Title Picture Remains Unclear Amidst Volkanovski Rumors
The potential Pitbull vs. Ige fight takes place during a period of uncertainty at the top of the featherweight division. UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski was initially anticipated to face Movsar Evloev after UFC 314, but reports suggest the UFC has different plans for the undefeated contender`s next fight.
Rumors are now circulating that Volkanovski`s next title defense could be a rematch against Yair Rodriguez later this year. Volkanovski previously defeated Rodriguez in a featherweight title unification bout at UFC 290.
Additionally, a matchup between Jean Silva and Diego Lopes is rumored, though no official confirmation has been made. Silva recently called for a title opportunity after his finish victory against Bryce Mitchell at UFC 314.
For Patricio `Pitbull`, an impressive performance against a respected opponent like Dan Ige at UFC 318 offers a significant opportunity to quickly elevate his standing and re-enter discussions for a shot at the UFC featherweight championship.
Neville Whittle 
Jack Thornley