Patrício “Pitbull” Freire won his first UFC title on July 19, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, when he defeated Dan Ige via unanimous decision in the co-main event of UFC 318. The former Bellator double champion defeated a resolute opponent who is currently rated No. 11 in the UFC featherweight division, showcasing exceptional talents, tactical discipline, and ring IQ.
Fight Breakdown: Smart, Strategic, Successful
From the outset, Pitbull demonstrated well-rounded control:
Round 1: Focus on leg kicks to disturb Ige’s base, followed by clean takedowns and ground control near the fence.
Round 2: Dan Ige attempted to take advantage of Pitbull’s sluggish start by landing more blows. However, Pitbull retaliated with blows, disrupted Ige’s speed, scored takedowns, and delivered powerful body blows prior to the bell.
Round 3: Pitbull was caught off surprise by Ige’s powerful head kick to start the fight. Pitbull, however, collected himself, managed another takedown, and maintained his momentum until the very last bell.
Pitbull won the fight 29-28, a resounding and well-earned victory, according to the scores of all three judges.
From Bellator Dominance to UFC Debut
Patrício Pitbull’s MMA resume is decorated:
Most championship fight victories in Bellator history, three Bellator featherweight titles, and one Bellator lightweight title.
He fell by a slim margin to Yair Rodriguez after switching to the UFC in April, but he bounced back spectacularly tonight.
His transformation from Bellator legend to a genuine featherweight danger in the octagon is aided by his first UFC victory.
About Dan Ige
Ige, a 33-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt and former NCAA class III wrestler, came into the fight rated No. 11 in the UFC featherweight class.
Known for his athleticism and ability to submit, he now has a 19-10 career record after the defeat.
Despite Ige’s best attempts, particularly his head kick, Pitbull was able to skillfully manage the tempo and flow.
What Worked for Pitbull
- Takedown Timing – His wrestling entries disrupted Ige’s offense and landed him in scoring positions.
- Leg-Kick Strategy – Early leg work limited Ige’s mobility, preventing effective counters.
- Composure Under Fire – Despite taking a head kick in Round 3, Pitbull was unfazed, responded smartly, and secured control.
This blend of wrestling, muay Thai, and resilience allowed Pitbull to shine.
What’s Next for Both Fighters
Patrício Pitbull: Currently 37-8, he will improve in upcoming encounters with rated opponents. Fights with the top 15 rivals hoping to win a UFC belt are possible routes.
Dan Ige: Still rated, he’ll probably get back on track and continue to fight for the crown by defeating other opponents.
UFC 318 Recap: A Night of High Drama
UFC 318 was an unforgettable evening:
Main card: The PPV’s main event was a trilogy fight between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier.
Supporting fights: Michael Johnson, Kevin Holland, and Silva all had outstanding performances, and Silva defeated Kopylov.
Pitbull’s victory in his UFC debut adds an incredible chapter to the event’s story.
Final Thoughts
With his seasoned edge game, precise hitting, and combat IQ, Patrício “Pitbull” Freire has made a strong entrance into the UFC and defeated a rated opponent with pleasure. He has now fully transformed from a Bellator icon to a strong featherweight in the UFC.
Dan Ige can expect a tough game with instant comeback possibilities. However, Pitbull’s victory solidifies his position as an MMA must-watch star and advances him farther in the title race.