WASHINGTON, DC – Friday night was a memorable one for Jesus Pinedo.
The Peruvian fighter became the 2023 PFL Featherweight Champion, earning the $1 million prize money and avenging his previous loss to Gabriel Braga in the 2023 PFL Championship. On top of that, Pinedo (23-6-1) has secured a champion-on-champion fight against Bellator titleholder Patricio Freire, set to take place in early 2024.
It was a significant moment in Pinedo’s career.
Speaking through an interpreter, Pinedo told MMA Junkie, “This was all a dream, so I’m very happy to be able to achieve this dream. I was a world champion and I knew that one day this would become a reality. I did it. My team made it possible. Thank you to my family for not abandoning me. It was a tough process. But it was worth it.”
Pinedo doesn’t dwell too much on facing Pitbull, despite him being the most prominent opponent he’s ever encountered.
“He’s a tough competitor, just like the others I’ve fought against,” Pinedo said. “This is just a new fight for me and I’m ready. I know that I’ll finish that fight. Like every other fight I’ve ever had, it’s not going to end. Probably not.”
For more information on this card, visit MMA Junkie’s 2023 PFL Championship event hub.
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