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PFL's Dan Hardy Issues Classy Response To Dana White's Dismissive Comments About Bellator Purchase

Originally posted on MMA News | By Kyle Dimond | Last updated 12/11/23

A lot of people got excited about the prospect of the PFL acquiring Bellator due to the huge boost it would have in terms of quality in its roster.

If there was ever going to be one man who would downplay the potential shift in the MMA landscape, however, it would be Dana White. The UFC CEO dismissed the deal as one 'sh*tty organization buying another sh*tty organization', but there's no denying that it's a huge move for the PFL.

Former UFC title challenger-turned-commentator Dan Hardy has become a key spokesperson for the PFL since joining them after his UFC departure.

As head of fighter operations for PFL Europe, he's extremely optimistic about what the future holds for the promotion, and he believes that the talent alone makes it impossible to dismiss.

He told Submission Radio that this acquisition can't be ignored or glossed over because of the conversations that it creates.

"It brings two big rosters together. Bellator have got some great fighters and you can argue that some of the guys in Bellator are the best in the world at that weight class. Unfortunately, of course, we know we're not going to get to see a lot of those crossover fights with UFC champions but with Bellator and PFL champions coming together, I think it creates more interest for the fans and creates more conversation about where the best fighters in the world are."

Hardy Thanks UFC For Opportunities But Sees Upside In PFL

As well as countering White's criticism of the deal by talking about the talent depth that the PFL now brings to the table, Hardy also believes that the promotion can compete differently from the UFC.

The PFL's biggest unique selling point is the tournament format that claims to emphasize transparency rather than matchmaking in terms of delivering fights.

During the interview, however, "The Outlaw" said that he will always take his hat off to the UFC and what the leading organization has been able to accomplish. But, that doesn't mean there isn't room for another major player.

"The UFC had a massive head start on everybody and they've done amazing things for the sport and I'll always appreciate and respect what they've done, what Dana has done for the sport of mixed martial arts and the opportunities that were given to me.

"But ultimately, mixed martial arts needs to continue moving forward and I think the pure sport format of PFL really appeals to a lot more fans especially given the fact that the UFC's started to gravitate more towards the entertainment industry"

This article first appeared on MMA News and was syndicated with permission.

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