Donn Davis, co-founder of PFL, recently sent a message directed at Patchy Mix ahead of his debut at UFC 316, but it was not well-received by the public.
The bantamweight division in the UFC has become even more competitive with the addition of Patchy Mix, a former Bellator champion. After leaving PFL earlier this year following a period of tension, Mix is set to make his first appearance in the UFC on short notice at the upcoming UFC 316 event in Newark.
Mix is scheduled to compete against Mario Bautista, a fighter ranked in the Top 15 and a teammate of Sean O’Malley, during the main card of UFC 316. Achieving a win in this bout could potentially elevate him into the crowded discussion for a bantamweight title shot.
Mix is one of several fighters who have transitioned from PFL to the UFC following difficulties in their relationship with the PFL`s leadership. However, despite the circumstances of Mix`s departure, one of the PFL executives still publicly offered him good wishes before UFC 316.
PFL Fans React Negatively to Donn Davis`s Message for Patchy Mix
In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), PFL co-founder Donn Davis shared a message referencing both Mix and Kayla Harrison in relation to UFC 316.
Davis posted on Sunday: “I always say there are numerous GREAT MMA fighters OUTSIDE [UFC]. Good luck to former [PFL] stars [Kayla Harrison and Patchy Mix] June 7th.”
Despite Davis`s seemingly courteous message, fans were quick to criticize the PFL executive, especially following Mix`s exit from the promotion.
Many fans responded negatively, with comments such as, “You’re letting them all walk back to the UFC. Insane work,” and “This isn’t the flex you think it is.”
Other reactions included criticisms like “And they want nothing to do with you,” “You guys screwed over Patchy Mix get outta here,” and “They left because you can’t give them any rights.” Some commenters questioned PFL`s business decisions, including the acquisition of Bellator.
Patchy Mix, Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire, and Aaron Pico are among the prominent names who have recently left PFL to compete under the UFC banner. Pico is reportedly expected to make his UFC debut later this year, while Pitbull previously faced Yair Rodriguez at UFC 314 last month.
Patchy Mix Discusses Conversation with Merab Dvalishvili Leading Up to UFC 316
As Patchy Mix prepares for his inaugural UFC fight, a potential confrontation with the current UFC bantamweight champion, Merab Dvalishvili, is already being discussed. Mix has indicated that the champion is receptive to him entering the group of potential title challengers.
Mix mentioned a brief conversation he had with Dvalishvili during a training session while Mix was navigating his contract issues with PFL. This suggests that a future bout between the two top bantamweights is a possibility. Merab Dvalishvili is set to defend his bantamweight title against Sean O’Malley in the headline fight of UFC 316.
An impressive victory by Mix, especially a finish, could strongly position him for a title opportunity. Given that Dvalishvili has already faced and defeated many of the top contenders in the division, Mix represents one of the few new high-level opponents aiming for a first championship fight against him.
Gareth Pendleton