UNCASVILLE, Conn. – Sergio Pettis had his expectations and hopes when he left the UFC, ventured into free agency, and joined Bellator in October 2019.
Now that he’s settled in, Pettis (20-5 MMA, 2-0 BMMA) is riding high off back-to-back victories in as many promotional appearances. Days out from his first Bellator title challenge against Juan Archuleta at Bellator 258, Pettis reflects fondly on his decision to switch promotions.
“It was definitely a difficult decision at the time,” Pettis told MMA Junkie on Wednesday. “I had goals and aspirations in the UFC. I was there for a while, making my way up to the top. I believe I was No. 2 or No. 3 when I left. I feel everything that led up to this point in my career – I’m happy, man. I’m very happy with Bellator. They’ve been amazing to me. The organization is very professional (and) all of the people I’ve been working with. It’s one of the top promotions out there. I’m glad to be a part of it.”
While it’s worked out so far, the icing on top of the cake could come in the form of Bellator gold. Though his work is cut out for him, Pettis is confident he’ll come out on top Friday.
If he wins, Pettis doesn’t just see himself as the best in his current promotion, however. A victory over a guy like Archuleta (25-2 MMA, 7-1 BMMA) should etch his name atop the list of best bantamweight fighters in the world today – a place he’s never really felt he’s left.
“I feel like I was proving myself over there in the UFC as well, I believe,” Pettis said. “Especially fighting Juan Archuleta, man. You know if you put him in any promotion he’s going to do well. It doesn’t matter the name of the promotion. We’re seeing that. The PFL, the UFC, RIZIN, ONE (Championship) – every promotion has their top guys. Those guys can compete in any promotion. It’s just a matter of when they do. I believe I will be one of the best bantamweights in the world if I do beat Juan Archuleta.”
Bellator 258 takes place Friday at Mohegan Sun Arena. The main card airs on Showtime after prelims on MMA Junkie.
To see the full interview with Pettis, check out the video above.
