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Larissa Pacheco frustrated over lack of offers after UFC snub: ‘The market has kind of closed its doors on me’

Former two-division PFL champion Larissa Pacheco is expressing growing frustration over the lack of opportunities in MMA nearly a year after her release from the promotion. Despite her impressive record—including a five-round victory over Cris Cyborg and a trilogy win against future UFC champion Kayla Harrison—Pacheco has struggled to secure a deal with major organizations.

Her attempts to return to the UFC reportedly failed, which she believes was due to concerns over her potential impact on the bantamweight division. Other promotions, including KSW and Oktagon in Europe, have also turned down offers, leaving her with limited options.

Pacheco recently competed in a non-MMA event, defeating Julia Stasiuk at Karate Combat to demonstrate her ability to make 135 pounds, but the win hasn’t translated into a professional MMA fight. With no offers in sight, Pacheco, now 32, fears her career is fading as she waits for a chance to return to the sport she dominates.

The former PFL featherweight and lightweight champion has not competed in MMA for nearly three years, with her last victory coming in 2023 against Marina Mokhnatkina. Her streak included seven first-round knockouts and a decision win in a trilogy against Harrison.

Pacheco’s frustration stems from the perception that her presence would disrupt the progress of other fighters aiming for the UFC, despite her proven ability and dominance in the cage. Promoters have cited difficulty finding opponents willing to face her, with concerns over her potential to win belts and stall divisional development.

As she continues to search for opportunities, Pacheco remains determined to prove she still belongs at the highest level of women’s MMA.

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