In a surprising turn of events, former PFL double-champion Larissa Pacheco received a curt email from UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard that all but extinguishes hopes of her Octagon comeback.
Maynard’s Cold Response Dampens UFC Ambitions
After publicly calling for a return to the UFC, where she once had a brief stint, Pacheco revealed Maynard’s one-line email: “I am not interested but thank you.” The subject line simply read “Larissa Pacheco (135),” signalling there was little appetite to bolster the UFC women’s bantamweight roster with the Brazilian powerhouse. Fans had campaigned to see the only woman to beat Kayla Harrison back in the Octagon, but it appears those calls went unheard.
Karate Combat Knockout Showcases Championship Calibre
Pacheco hasn’t been idle since her PFL release last October. She signed with Karate Combat and made an explosive debut in Miami, dropping her opponent with a tomahawk elbow knockout at 135lbs. While the highlight-reel finish reminded MMA circles of her six-inch reach advantage and ferocious striking, critics have questioned the level of competition she faced in The Pit.
Impact on the Women’s Bantamweight Landscape
With Kayla Harrison set to defend her UFC title against Amanda Nunes later this year after neck surgery, the bantamweight division is brimming with talent. Pacheco’s absence leaves a potential high-profile matchup unfulfilled, as fans crave fresh rivalries and championship-calibre foes for the reigning queen of the Octagon.
For now, Larissa Pacheco will have to rebuild her case for UFC gold elsewhere, with her undeniable résumé in the PFL and recent Karate Combat knockout serving as the latest chapters in her bid for a second chance at MMA’s biggest stage.
FAQ
Has Larissa Pacheco ever beaten Kayla Harrison?
Yes. Larissa Pacheco holds a 1-2 record against Kayla Harrison and remains the only woman to have defeated the UFC women’s bantamweight champion in MMA competition.
What did UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard say?
In an email revealed by Pacheco, Maynard simply stated, “I am not interested but thank you,” effectively closing the door on her immediate UFC return.
What was Pacheco’s most recent fight?
Pacheco made her Karate Combat debut in Miami, securing a highlight-reel tomahawk elbow knockout at 135lbs against an opponent with limited professional experience.
Could Pacheco return to the UFC?
While nothing is official, Pacheco will need to string together more high-profile wins outside the Octagon to convince UFC brass and matchmakers to give her another opportunity.
