Dakota Ditcheva, a 25-year-old flyweight with a perfect 13-0 record, faces criticism for perceived favorable matchups en route to the 2024 PFL Championships, but she attributes her success to hard work and aims to prove herself against Taila Santos in the finals.
Dakota Ditcheva didn’t get here by accident.
With a perfect 13-0 record, including three straight knockouts, she earned her spot at the 2024 PFL Championships. At just 25, this flyweight from England could be the next big thing. Yet, not everyone is thrilled about her rapid ascent to stardom. Some of her peers seem less than happy about it.
“There’s definitely a bit of jealousy and frustration from a few fighters,” Ditcheva told MMA Fighting. “I get it. It’s a business, right? We have to sell these fights to get paid. If you wanna get paid, do something exciting or get active on social media. The ones making money are usually the personalities or those doing something different.
“I don’t know why anyone’s frustrated with me. I’m just trying to make the most out of my years in this sport. Seems like the smart thing to do.”
One criticism Ditcheva faced this PFL season was that she had easier matchups leading to the finals compared to others.
The biggest gripe came when she faced Jena Bishop in the semifinals instead of more seasoned fighters like UFC veteran Taila Santos or Bellator champ Liz Carmouche. Santos beat Carmouche in a tough decision while Ditcheva finished Bishop in round one.
Of course, Ditcheva doesn’t choose her opponents; that’s up to the PFL. Playoff matchups are based on regular-season points.
On Friday, Ditcheva might quiet some critics as she faces Santos in the finals. But she knows nothing’s guaranteed—PFL seasons can be unpredictable.
“You can’t predict it,” Ditcheva explained. “I wasn’t particularly happy about it. Anything can happen—Jena lost but still placed top four. You’ve gotta be ready for anything.”
“I caught some flak for facing Jena because Taila and Liz fought each other, but that’s just how the tournament goes. It worked out well because this final fight is probably one of the best possible matchups.”
Ditcheva believes breaking through language barriers is crucial for connecting with U.S. fans.
“I feel lucky I speak English,” she said. “In this industry, if you don’t speak English, you fall behind a bit. No one wants to read subtitles—I hate saying it, but it’s true.”
“It’s not something I chose; it’s just how things work. Complaints go over my head—I just keep getting what I can out of it.”
Despite all the attention—good and bad—Ditcheva insists none of it matters if she’s not winning.
She knows popularity means nothing without victories. So far, she’s been nearly untouchable.
“No one would care if I couldn’t fight, right?” she said. “Fighting always comes first despite all the cameras and attention.”
Facing Santos, Ditcheva prepares for the worst but expects the best from herself despite tougher competition.
She promises readiness for battle; so far, her opponents haven’t matched her firepower. Whether Santos proves tougher or not, Ditcheva aims to claim the PFL title and its $1 million prize.
“She’s a very good fighter,” Ditcheva said about Santos. “I respect her a lot—I watched her in UFC. She’s tough and dangerous with amazing striking skills.”
“I know what I’m capable of—definitely another finish if the opportunity arises. I’m ready for five rounds but never satisfied with going the distance.”