Patricio Freire Brazilian mixed martial artist Date of Birth: 07.07.1987 Country: Brazil

1. Early Life and Training
2. Early Professional Career
3. Bellator Grand Prix
4. First Championship Attempt and Setback
5. Continued Contention and Second Grand Prix Win
6. Featherweight Champion and Title Defenses
7. Third Title Loss and Challenges
8. Reclaiming the Featherweight Title
9. Lightweight Championship and Dual Reign

Early Life and Training

Patricio Freire, a Brazilian mixed martial artist in the featherweight division, was born on July 7, 1987, in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. His journey in martial arts began at the age of ten, when he started training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Freire honed his skills at the renowned Chute Boxe academy alongside notable fighters like Wanderlei Silva and Maurício Rua.

Early Professional Career

Freire made his professional MMA debut at the tender age of sixteen in March 2004. He showcased impressive striking and grappling techniques, securing victories in several local Brazilian promotions. With an undefeated record of 12-0, Freire emerged as a promising prospect and caught the attention of Bellator MMA in 2010.

Bellator Grand Prix

Freire joined Bellator and immediately entered the Season 2 Featherweight Grand Prix. He defeated his opponents in the quarterfinals and semifinals but fell short in the final against Joe Warren. However, he rebounded in the Season 4 Grand Prix, defeating Daniel Straus to claim the title.

First Championship Attempt and Setback

Freire earned a shot at the Featherweight Championship against Joe Warren, but a hand injury forced him to withdraw. After recovering, he faced Pat Curran, losing via a controversial split decision.

Continued Contention and Second Grand Prix Win

Undeterred, Freire continued to compete in Bellator, winning against Jared Downing. He triumphed in the Season 9 Featherweight Grand Prix, overcoming opponents like Diego Nunes and Justin Wilcox.

Featherweight Champion and Title Defenses

In September 2014, Freire faced Pat Curran for the second time and emerged victorious by unanimous decision, claiming the Featherweight Championship. He successfully defended the title twice against Daniel Straus and Daniel Weichel.

Third Title Loss and Challenges

Freire lost the title in November 2015 to Daniel Straus. He defeated Henry Corrales in 2016 but suffered a setback against former UFC champion Benson Henderson in the lightweight division.

Reclaiming the Featherweight Title

Freire regained the Featherweight Championship in April 2017 with a submission victory over Daniel Straus.

Lightweight Championship and Dual Reign

In May 2019, Freire made history by defeating Michael Chandler to become the Lightweight Champion. He established a unique dual-championship reign.