Kayla Harrison defeated Ketlen Vieira in the UFC, while Larissa Pacheco criticized the PFL’s promotional focus on Harrison despite her departure from the organization, expressing hope that a victory over Cris Cyborg would elevate her status and garner the recognition she feels she deserves.
Kayla Harrison stepped into the UFC cage for a second time last Saturday. She bested Ketlen Vieira in Salt Lake City, inching closer to the bantamweight title. Meanwhile, Larissa Pacheco wasn’t too thrilled with the PFL’s social media antics that day.
Harrison kicked off her MMA journey with PFL back in 2018. She’s won 15 out of 16 fights, only losing once to Pacheco, whom she had previously defeated twice. Interestingly, PFL used Harrison’s big UFC 307 event to spotlight Pacheco’s upcoming clash with MMA icon Cris Cyborg on October 19th. They did share a clip promoting Harrison later, though.
Pacheco voiced her thoughts to MMA Fighting, saying, “I thought that was uncalled for, honestly.” She believes PFL should properly promote their champion—her. “I’ve proven myself,” she added. The rivalry with Harrison? It’s over now since Kayla’s in another league. “I wish her good luck,” Pacheco said.
Dana White chimed in too, poking fun at PFL for their tweet. He quipped, “When you’re losing as much money as they are, f*cking go for it.”
Cyborg is a true legend, holding titles from UFC to Bellator and beyond. Pacheco aims to add this Brazilian powerhouse to her list of conquered foes after claiming belts in two PFL weight classes.
With a solid 10-fight winning streak, Pacheco has only fallen to Harrison, Germaine de Randamie, and Jessica Andrade across 27 pro bouts. Yet, she feels it’s obvious that PFL promotes Harrison differently.
“Maybe it’s ’cause I’m Brazilian or don’t speak English,” she pondered. Despite Harrison moving on, PFL still posts plenty about her. “She’s gone,” Pacheco emphasized.
A victory over Cyborg in Saudi Arabia could shift public perception and the PFL’s marketing approach toward her favorably. “It takes me to another level,” she stated confidently.
Beating both an Olympic champ like Harrison and a legend like Cyborg could elevate her status significantly. “What else do I need to say?” she questioned rhetorically.
Many focus on her loss to Kayla back in 2019 when she was not at her best. But she triumphed when they were both at their peaks. A win over Cris now would bolster the hype and credibility she craves at this point in her career.