The Queens Take Flight: A Look at the PFL 2024 Women's Flyweight Championship

The PFL returns in 2024, ushering in a brand new era with the inaugural Women's Flyweight Championship. This exciting division, brimming with talented fighters, promises fierce battles and captivating storylines. With the first fights set for San Antonio on April 4th, let's delve into the profiles of the women vying for the coveted PFL gold.

Main Event: A Trilogy for the Ages - Liz Carmouche (20-7) vs. Juliana Velasquez (12-2)

This main event promises not just a fight, but the culmination of a long-standing rivalry. Two of the most decorated veterans in women's MMA, Liz Carmouche and Juliana Velasquez, will lock horns for the third time. Their previous encounters, both taking place in Bellator, were finished by favourite Liz Carmouche, showcasing the fighters' near-equal skillsets and unwavering determination.

Liz Carmouche:  "The Lioness" Liz Carmouche boasts a wealth of experience, having competed against some of the best fighters in the world. Her well-rounded skillset includes crisp boxing, powerful wrestling, and a suffocating ground game. Carmouche's ability to adapt and strategize mid-fight makes her a dangerous opponent for any flyweight. This third fight against Velasquez represents a chance for Carmouche to finally settle the score and etch her name in PFL history as the first Women's Flyweight Champion.

Juliana Velasquez:  "The Venezuelan Vixen" Juliana Velasquez is known for her aggressive striking and relentless pressure. Her powerful kicks and devastating punches can put any opponent to sleep. However, Velasquez also possesses a strong ground game, making her a threat in all areas of the fight. Looking to avenge her two previous losses to Carmouche, Velasquez will be fueled by a desire for redemption and a shot at the inaugural PFL title.

This main event promises to be a thrilling clash of styles and experience. Will Carmouche's well-roundedness prevail, or will Velasquez's aggression tip the scales? This highly anticipated trilogy fight is guaranteed to leave fans on the edge of their seats.

Dakota Ditcheva (10-0) vs. Lisa Mauldin (6-3): 

In one corner, we have the undefeated phenom, "Dangerous" Dakota Ditcheva. Ditcheva, the reigning PFL Europe Champion, boasts a perfect record and devastating striking power. Her aggressive fighting style and relentless pressure have earned her a reputation as a fighter to watch who doesnt like to leave it in the judges hands only going the distance once as a pro. Across the octagon stands Lisa Mauldin, a seasoned veteran with a knack for come-from-behind victories. Mauldin's experience and ability to adapt could pose a serious challenge to Ditcheva's undefeated streak. This matchup between rising star and seasoned veteran is sure to be an exciting spectacle.

Taila Santos (19-3) vs. Denise Kielholtz (8-5): 

 This fight features two strikers with knockout power. Taila Santos, known for her razor-sharp elbows and devastating clinch work, came agonizingly close to dethroning UFC Flyweight Champion Valentina Shevchenko. Her aggressive fighting style promises an entertaining matchup. Denise Kielholtz, a Dutch kickboxing champion, possesses powerful leg kicks and a knack for finishes. This clash of striking styles could result in a spectacular knockout or a thrilling war of attrition.

Kana Watanabe (12-2-1) vs. Shanna Young (9-5): 

This matchup offers a blend of experience and explosiveness. Kana Watanabe, a Japanese veteran with a well-rounded skillset, will utilize her technical striking and strong wrestling to control the fight. Shanna Young, a rising American star with exceptional knockout power, will aim to keep the fight standing and unleash her thunderous punches. This encounter promises a display of technical prowess versus raw power.

Chelsea Hackett (4-1-1) vs. Jena Bishop (6-0):  

The flyweight division also features a matchup between two up-and-coming prospects. Chelsea Hackett, a well-rounded fighter with a strong wrestling base, will look to impose her grappling style on the fight. Jena Bishop, an undefeated prospect with a background in Muay Thai, boasts devastating striking power. This clash of youth and athleticism could be a potential fight of the night contender.

The Path to PFL Flyweight Glory:

The PFL's unique format ensures every fight carries immense weight. Fighters earn points based on their performance (win by knockout/TKO = 3 points, win by decision = 2 points, loss by submission = 1 point), with the top fighters from each weight class advancing to the single-elimination playoffs. These playoffs offer a dramatic conclusion to the season, with fighters needing to win multiple fights in a single night to claim the championship and the coveted million-dollar prize.

The PFL Women's Flyweight Championship promises to be a historic moment in MMA. This division features a captivating mix of experienced veterans and hungry newcomers, all vying for the chance to etch their names in PFL history. From the much-anticipated trilogy fight between Carmouche and Velasquez to the exciting clashes of rising stars like Ditcheva and Bishop, the PFL 2024 Women's Flyweight Championship promises to be a thrilling season filled with captivating storylines and unforgettable fights. Mark your calendars for April 4th and witness the birth of a champion in San Antonio, Texas!

Beyond the Champions

While the main event and the title race capture the spotlight, the PFL Women's Flyweight division offers more than just a championship chase. It provides a platform for talented fighters to showcase their skills and climb the PFL ranks. Expect to see exciting prospects like Jena Bishop and Dakota Ditcheva making their marks, while established veterans like Lisa Mauldin and Kana Watanabe continue to prove their mettle. The PFL's format, with its emphasis on points and playoff potential, incentivizes fighters to put on exciting displays, ensuring every fight throughout the season holds significance.

The Future of Women's MMA

The launch of the PFL Women's Flyweight division signifies a positive step forward for women's MMA. By providing a platform for these talented athletes and rewarding them handsomely, the PFL contributes to the overall growth and development of the sport. With a diverse range of fighters, captivating storylines, and the potential for future weight classes, the PFL Women's Flyweight division promises to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of MMA. As these fighters step into the PFL cage, they are not just competing for a championship, they are paving the way for a brighter future for women's MMA. So, get ready for an electrifying season as the PFL Women's Flyweight Championship takes flight!