In a surprising turn of events, former UFC middleweight contender Derek Brunson (23-9) has officially inked a deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), signaling a new chapter in his fighting career. The announcement was made by Ali Abdelaziz, the head of Dominance MMA, during an exclusive interview with The Schmo.
According to Abdelaziz, Brunson’s departure from the UFC was an amicable and respectful decision for both parties. Brunson, who was originally scheduled to face Roman Dolidze in November under the UFC banner, will now be looking to make his mark in the PFL’s light heavyweight division.
The move to PFL marks a significant shift for Brunson, who had enjoyed a successful run in the UFC, notching impressive victories over notable opponents like Edmen Shahbazyan and Darren Till. However, his recent setbacks against Jared Cannonier and Dricus Du Plessis have prompted this strategic career move.
Brunson’s manager, Abdelaziz, expressed confidence in his fighter’s prospects in the new division, stating, “Derek Brunson’s time there at the UFC is done, and he has to move up to light heavyweight and probably can win a million dollars in this tournament.” With the PFL’s unique format, the opportunity to claim a million-dollar prize is indeed a tantalizing prospect for the seasoned fighter.
Derek Brunson is eager to join the ranks of former UFC fighters who have found success in the PFL, with several light heavyweight tournament champions hailing from the UFC. This shift could potentially reignite his career and set the stage for an exciting journey in a new weight class.
The PFL’s commitment to talent and competition is further underscored by the upcoming 2023 Season PFL Championships event on Nov. 24, featuring an impressive lineup of 11 bouts, including six title fights spanning various weight divisions. With the addition of Derek Brunson to their roster, the PFL continues to solidify its status as a powerhouse in the world of mixed martial arts.
As the world of mixed martial arts eagerly anticipates Derek Brunson’s debut in the PFL’s light heavyweight division, fight fans are left buzzing with excitement. The prospect of witnessing this seasoned warrior’s journey to potential million-dollar glory adds a thrilling dimension to the already action-packed MMA landscape. With the PFL’s commitment to delivering high-stakes competition and Brunson’s hunger for redemption, the stage is set for an electrifying showdown in 2024. Brace yourselves for an epic chapter in the career of Derek Brunson, as he embarks on a quest to etch his name in the annals of PFL history, and perhaps, secure a life-changing payday in the process. Fight night just got a whole lot more exciting!
