Ketlen Vieira reacts to UFC’s ‘unbelievable’ decision to let her go while keeping ‘many other fighters there who aren’t on my level’

Key Points:

• Ketlen Vieira, a top-ranked UFC bantamweight for nearly a decade, was unexpectedly released by the UFC despite winning her last fight in May, a decision she finds hard to understand given her consistent performance and ranking.
• Shortly after her UFC release, Vieira signed with the PFL and is set to face featherweight champion Cris Cyborg in the main event at PFL Tampa on August 22, fulfilling a long-held dream of fighting for a title.
• Vieira expressed surprise and frustration over the UFC's decision not to renew her contract, noting that she believes she is more skilled than many fighters still in the division, though she remains grateful to the UFC for the opportunities it provided.
• She views her move to PFL positively, highlighting the organization's recent growth, including its merger with MVP MMA and support from Jake Paul, and feels valued as an athlete in her new promotion.
• Vieira also speculated that the UFC might be less interested in investing in women's divisions going forward, but remains focused on her new chapter and grateful for the chance to compete for a title in PFL.