Pitbull's UFC Paris opponent receives sign of hope from executive after failed debut

Belgian missed weight in his first match with the new organization and his dismissal was considered by journalists

Velber Viana

07/09/2025 | 15:54

Losene Keita was scheduled to face Patrício Pitbul in his UFC debut. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

Losene Keita's UFC debut against Patrick Pitbull No. UFC Paris, it didn't happen because of the Belgian. The athlete signed with the UFC earlier this year while he was the lightweight champion of 'Oktagon MMA'He was scheduled to face the former two-time Bellator champion at the Accor Arena, but the scales didn't allow it. However, this is far from a reason to fire him, according to David Shaw, the UFC's senior vice president of international operations.

“I believe so (he'll get another chance). Honestly, I don't know the details. I think some of us were surprised the fight didn't happen, but either way, it'll be good to have him on the roster. He hasn't been cut—not that I know of,” Shaw said at a post-fight press conference. UFC Paris.

Keita lives in Belgium. After being about a kilo and a half over the tolerance for the featherweight division (up to 65,7 kg), he was the target of attacks from Patrick Pitbull. The Brazilian said that UFC had already given enough advantages to his opponent by making Pitbull travel from Brazil to Europe, and his lack of professionalism, without knowing the weight, ended the fight.

Pitbull is a former Bellator featherweight and lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg). After years in the organization, and considered the company's greatest fighter of all time, Patrício arrived at the UFC earlier this year after requesting his release from the PFL, which purchased Bellator.

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