Bellator 301 could be the final event for the promotion as they negotiate a potential sale to PFL, with Patricky Pitbull unsure of his future in the company and considering a move to another promotion, while also contemplating a potential sabbatical and expressing interest in testing himself in boxing and other combat sports.
Bellator 301 in Chicago could potentially be the final card in the promotion’s history as negotiations for a potential sale to PFL are underway. This has left grand prix semifinalist Patricky Pitbull questioning whether he will have the opportunity to compete for a million-dollar check if he manages to defeat Alexander Shabliy. Pitbull advanced to the penultimate bout in the grand prix with a victory over Roberto Satoshi in July, and is uncertain about what the future holds after Usman Nurmagomedov failed a drug test. It remains unclear whether the tournament will conclude and if Bellator will still be around in 2024. Pitbull expressed uncertainty about the situation, stating “I’m not sure as well [if the tournament will conclude], I don’t know much.”
Patricky Pitbull has been under contract with Bellator since 2011 and is averse to change as his brother, Patricio Pitbull, also joined the company a year prior. Despite re-signing with Bellator recently, Pitbull admitted that he feels “in a good spot” should a potential move to another promotion, like PFL, occur. He plans on taking a sabbatical after the tournament concludes and sees more challenges in his future, expressing interest in testing himself in boxing and other combat sports. The fighter emphasized that his renewal with Bellator in the middle of the grand prix does not determine his future with the company. He said, “It all depends on the GP.”
Focused on the present, Pitbull is preparing to face Alexander Shabliy in his upcoming fight, acknowledging the rising talent’s impressive run in Bellator. He noted their similarity in fighting style and highlighted Shabliy’s strategic approach in fights. Pitbull also expressed confidence in facing Shabliy’s submissions, stating, “His submissions are no big deal. He makes the most of every opportunity. He makes people miss and remains very, very calm.” He is ready to face Shabliy’s skill set and is prepared for whatever comes his way in the upcoming bout.