Leah McCourt’s title shot in the merged PFL and Bellator hangs in the balance. Despite her impressive performance, she may have to wait for her turn. Read more to find out the details.
| Leah McCourt’s Title Shot in Jeopardy as PFL and Bellator Merge |
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| The Uncertain Future of Leah McCourt |
| McCourt’s presumed title shot could be in jeopardy as PFL and Bellator merge. Cris "Cyborg" Justino may face Larissa Pacheco instead of McCourt. McCourt remains hopeful and believes she has earned her shot. |
The Uncertain Future of Leah McCourt
As 2024 rapidly approaches, the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is undergoing significant changes. The recent merger between Professional Fighters League (PFL) and Bellator has shaken up the landscape, but it may not bode well for Belfast’s own Leah McCourt. Despite her impressive first-round technical knockout of Sara McMann at Bellator 300 in September 2023, McCourt’s presumed title shot could be in jeopardy.
The new regime at PFL plans to kick off with champion vs. champion fights between PFL and Bellator titleholders. This means that Cris "Cyborg" Justino, the reigning Bellator Featherweight champion, will likely face Larissa Pacheco instead of McCourt. It’s a significant move in MMA, creating exciting matchups, but McCourt is understandably concerned about her next fight.
McCourt, who recently spoke to MMA Mania at the 2023 World MMA Awards in Las Vegas, expressed her desire for a fight against Cyborg. She believes she has earned her shot and hopes that it will come to fruition before Cyborg’s career comes to an end.
The 31-year-old McCourt bounced back with a win against McMann after a competitive unanimous decision loss to Cat Zingano, Cyborg’s previous title challenger, in March 2023. A victory over McMann would have guaranteed McCourt a title shot, but she remains one of the last Bellator staples yet to challenge for gold.
While waiting for her turn, McCourt has no intentions of risking her position. She firmly believes that she deserves the title shot based on the caliber of opponents she has faced, including Cat Zingano, Sara McMann, and even Manon Fiorot in the UFC.
Summary
Leah McCourt’s presumed title shot in the merged PFL and Bellator may be in jeopardy. The new regime plans champion vs. champion fights, and it seems that Cris "Cyborg" Justino will face Larissa Pacheco instead of McCourt. McCourt, however, remains hopeful and believes she has earned her shot. She has no plans to fight again before the title opportunity arises.
