Larissa Pacheco Released by PFL After Two Championship Wins
Larissa Pacheco has officially parted ways with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) after a significant six-year tenure. The announcement came from PFL officials, who confirmed her release on Thursday. Pacheco is celebrated as a two-time tournament champion and is notable for being the only fighter to hand a defeat to UFC champion Kayla Harrison.
Larissa Pacheco’s PFL Journey
Throughout her career with the PFL, Pacheco showcased her skills in both the lightweight and featherweight divisions. She was an essential part of the organization since its inception, demonstrating remarkable talent and resilience.
Key Achievements
- Two-time tournament champion.
- Defeated Kayla Harrison in 2022 to secure the PFL lightweight championship.
- Victories over notable opponents like Sarah Kaufman, Olena Kolesnyk, and Julia Budd.
Pacheco transitioned to the PFL after competing as a bantamweight in the UFC, where she struggled to find her niche. Her success in the PFL allowed her to capitalize on her strengths in heavier weight classes.
Recent Developments
The Brazilian fighter’s journey in PFL culminated with a notable win streak, although she faced a setback in 2024 against Cris Cyborg, losing by unanimous decision. Her last fight occurred in a environment where the PFL did not promote a featherweight division for the 2025 season.
Future Prospects
With her release from the PFL, Pacheco is now a free agent, opening the door to new opportunities. The PFL expressed gratitude for her contributions and memorable performances, wishing her well in her future endeavors.
As Larissa Pacheco ventures into the next chapter of her career, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see where she competes next.