Thiago Marreta breaks with the UFC and signs with a major organization for the 2023 season

T. Marreta challenged for the UFC light heavyweight belt in 2019. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @tmarretamma

After almost 10 years wearing UFC gloves, Thiago Marreta is no longer part of the organization. This Thursday (8), the 'ESPN' reported the end of the Brazilian's agreement with the company chaired by Dana White. Moments later, the former challenger for the light heavyweight belt (up to 93k.kg.) was announced as a PFL reinforcement for the 2023 season.

“It's official. I’m from the PFL and I’ll fight next season,” said Marreta, in a video released by the organization.

From his 'new home', Marreta arrives at the Professional Fighters League to compete in the light heavyweight tournament, which, in 2021, had Antonio Shoe Guy as a great champion. In addition to the opportunity to win the title in the company, the fighter from Cidade de Deus (RJ) will compete in the championship that awards US$1 million (more than R$5 million) to the big winner.

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A UFC athlete since 2013, Thiago was one of the participants in the second edition of TUF (The Ultimate Fighter) Brazil. In the reality show, the athlete reached the quarterfinals, but ended up eliminated after being surpassed by Leo Santos, acting as middleweight.

Although he reached the UFC fighting in the 83,9kg division, it was in the light heavyweight division that Marreta gained worldwide fame. In the category, the Tupiniquim was close to making history in MMA, in 2019, when he faced Jon Jones for the group's belt.

Against the legend, Thiago faced the North American on equal terms, even with serious knee injuries during most of the 25 minutes played. After five rounds, 'Bones' was announced the winner in a split decision by the judges.

The end of the Brazilian's career in Ultimate was one of instability. Between 2019 and 2022, the fighter accumulated four stumbles in the last five appearances. The athlete, however, leaves the company in the top 10 of the ranking.

Currently 38 years old, Marreta has 33 appearances as a professional in MMA. Today, Tupiniquim has 22 triumphs and 11 setbacks.

Check out Marreta's ad

The 2023 PFL Light Heavyweight division just got more exciting! Welcome to the League @TMarretaMMA! pic.twitter.com/9SCzmWw2Aa

— PFL (@PFLMMA) September 8, 2022

🔨🔨 @TMarretaMMA pic.twitter.com/lTJJwDuUS2

— PFL (@PFLMMA) September 8, 2022

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