.png)
In the upcoming clash between Bellator and PFL fighters in Saudi Arabia, A.J. McKee, former Bellator featherweight champion, sees an opportunity to dispel any misconceptions surrounding the Bellator roster. McKee believes that despite PFL acquiring Bellator, the focus should be on individual matchups rather than organizational affiliations.
In a bout against Clay Collard, who reached the PFL’s $1 million lightweight final last November, McKee is prepared to represent Bellator fighters with distinction. Expressing a perceived chip on the shoulders of PFL athletes due to the acquisition, McKee emphasized the Bellator team's business-oriented approach, contrasting it with the casual demeanor of some PFL fighters.
"At the press conference, it showed – we’re all suited and booted. These (PFL) guys are comfortable having fun, dressed up in f*cking movie football jerseys and stuff. We’re coming for business, at the end of the day, and I think that’s the difference that’s going to set us apart when it comes to fight night," stated McKee.
Having concluded his Bellator tenure with a remarkable 21-1 record, McKee is now competing in the lightweight division after a successful run as the featherweight champion. Despite the shift, McKee remains confident and views the collaboration as an opportunity to showcase his skills to a new audience.
“It’s a new organization. PFL knows of me. Their fans don’t really know about me,” McKee said. “So for me, I see it as an opportunity to go out there and show them what I’m really about and showcase my skills to them."
As McKee prepares for the first collaboration event post-PFL's acquisition of Bellator, he aims to continue his impressive career and make a lasting impact on the global MMA stage, ensuring that fans recognize the excellence and determination of Bellator fighters.