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

Ketlen Vieira, a highly ranked bantamweight in the UFC, was shocked and dismayed by the organization's decision to release her following a victory over Jacqueline Cavalcanti. Vieira, who had been a top athlete in the division for many years, expressed her disbelief at the decision. "I've been a top athlete in the division for many years," she said, "but it was still a huge surprise to me because I've been a top athlete in the division for many years."

Vieira also lamented the fact that many other fighters at bantamweight were kept on by the UFC, despite not matching her level of performance. "It's kind of unbelievable that they wouldn't renew my contract when there are many other fighters there who aren't on my level," she said. Despite her disappointment, Vieira chose to see the bright side of the situation.

She signed with the PFL to face their featherweight champion Cris Cyborg in the main event of PFL Tampa on Aug. 22. Vieira acknowledged the mixed emotions that come with leaving the UFC after a decade in the promotion. "I was expecting it because usually we renew a contract before the final fight," she said, "but it was still a surprise to me."

She expressed her gratitude to the UFC for providing her with a name and changing her life, but she is now focused on her new opportunity in the PFL. Vieira believes that good things are coming her way with PFL's merger with MVP MMA and popular figure Jake Paul's support for the organization. She can't help but wonder about the future of women's MMA under the UFC umbrella, but for now, she is focused on her new title shot.