Larissa Pacheco Frustrated by UFC Snub, Urges Promotion to Give Her a Chance

Former two-time PFL champion Larissa Pacheco is feeling more and more frustrated as she struggles to land a new MMA contract. Despite an impressive résumé that includes a victory over current UFC champion Kayla Harrison, the Brazilian fighter reveals that major promotions have consistently turned her down, leaving her in a tough spot as she searches for her next chance.

In a candid interview with MMA Fighting, Pacheco shared her feelings about being in free agency for a year and how the lack of interest has weighed heavily on her emotionally. At 32, she firmly believes she still has a lot to contribute to the sport, but she worries that being away from the cage for so long might make fans forget her achievements.

Larissa Pacheco Struggles to Find a New MMA Home

Pacheco became a free agent after parting ways with the PFL in 2025, following a defeat to Cris Cyborg. Since then, she has explored opportunities with the UFC and international promotions, including KSW and OKTAGON, but has yet to secure a deal.

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According to Pacheco, some promoters have expressed concerns about finding suitable opponents willing to face her.

“The market has kind of closed its doors on me, you know?” Pacheco told MMA Fighting.

The Brazilian previously competed at Karate Combat, defeating Julia Stasiuk in an appearance that also demonstrated her ability to make the bantamweight limit. However, she emphasized that competing outside MMA does not fulfil her ambitions.

Pacheco Wants an Opportunity, Not a Title Fight

Pacheco believes her accomplishments should be enough to earn another opportunity at the highest level. Her résumé includes two PFL championship seasons and a victory over Harrison, who has since become UFC women's bantamweight champion.

“I’m not asking for a title fight. I’m not asking to get into the UFC and fight Amanda or Kayla,” she explained. “I’m asking for the opportunity to show what I can still do in this sport.”

For now, Pacheco remains determined to continue fighting. Rather than demanding an immediate championship opportunity, she wants a chance to prove herself inside the cage and remind the MMA world what she can deliver.