Kai Kamaka, a seasoned MMA fighter, aims to return to the UFC after navigating a tumultuous career with stints in Bellator and PFL, and despite challenges with promotions like GFL, he remains determined to achieve his UFC dreams.
Kai Kamaka never took his first stint with the UFC for granted. Now, he’s more determined than ever to return.
He spent only four fights with the UFC before his contract wasn’t renewed. Bellator quickly offered him a spot, where he amassed a 4-1 record over two years.
His final fight with Bellator coincided with rumors of a sale. Shortly after defeating Henry Corrales, Bellator sold to the PFL, giving Kamaka a new home.
“I had the weird UFC stint,” Kamaka said. “I’m doing well in Bellator, climbing those rankings.” But then, the rumors of a sale hit. Boom, the sale happened.
Kamaka transitioned to the PFL, facing tough competition like Bubba Jenkins and Brendan Loughnane. He became a backup for the PFL championship fight.
He joined the 2024 PFL season, going 2-1, but lost to Loughnane in the semifinals. Although offered a backup role for the final fight, he declined.
“I don’t go to Saudi Arabia as a backup,” Kamaka explained. “$10,000 for a world title fight didn’t make sense for my team.”
After skipping the backup role, Kamaka learned about changes in PFL’s format and prize money. But the real issue was the contract term.
“They offered a three-year contract,” Kamaka revealed. “I’m in my prime. I want to get back to the UFC.”
PFL then offered a one-year deal for two fights, but not in the tournament. Meanwhile, Kamaka heard about a new promotion, Global Fight League.
GFL promised big money but seemed risky. Kamaka signed with eyes wide open, aware it might not take off.
His fears came true when GFL canceled two debut cards. Fighters, including UFC veteran Alan Belcher, called it a “scam.”
Kamaka was left without a fight, but eventually booked a bout at Tuff-N-Uff in Las Vegas. He won by knockout, his first fight in eight months.
The win fueled his determination to return to the UFC. “That’s where my heart is,” Kamaka said. “You don’t get that feeling unless it’s the UFC.”
Kamaka holds no ill will towards PFL or GFL. His ultimate goal remains the UFC. “I’m doing whatever I can to make that happen,” he said.
His UFC tenure was brief, but with more experience now, he feels ready. “It’s UFC or bust,” Kamaka declared.
Timing and opportunity are key. Fighters often need replacements on short notice, and Kamaka is ready for that challenge.
“At 25, I had one camp for my four UFC fights,” Kamaka said. “I’m more seasoned now. My fight IQ is way higher.”
Kamaka’s journey has been tumultuous, but his resolve is stronger than ever. He’s ready for whatever comes next.