19-1 Bellator champ reportedly steps in to save UFC 316 fight

Originally posted on MMA on SI | By Mathew Riddle | Last updated May 15, 2025 11:05 AM ET

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UFC 316 might be on the receiving end of one of the biggest UFC signings of the year.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Ecuador's Marlon Vera was out of his fight with Mario Bautista on the Newark main card. With 'Chito' potentially out, one of the most alluring fights on the card, outside of the title fights, was a dud.

More outlets have confirmed the 'Chito' news, and now the same source reports that a high-profile Bellator champion may be filling in on short notice.

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Report: Patchy Mix joins UFC 316, fights Mario Bautista on main card

Following another report by MagicM on X, former Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix has departed PFL and should be filling in for Vera on the UFC 316 main card.

Can confirm now.

Patchy Mix vs Mario Bautista it’s on.

Per sources. https://t.co/HEEnDnZEl0
— MagicM (@MagicM_MMABets) May 14, 2025

On May 14, Journalist Ariel Helwani also alluded to Mix signing with the UFC since departing the PFL.

Not a matter of if but when. https://t.co/DdDtM7Mdzo
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) May 14, 2025

Mix is one of the hottest prospects outside of the UFC. He dominated the Bellator scene with highlight-worthy finishes over champions Raufeon Stots and Sergio Pettis.

Following his immense success and Bellator's absorption into PFL, Mix was put on ice. 19-1 Mix was vocal with his discontent with the promotion, and if the reports hold true, he should be a welcome addition to the UFC roster.

His debut fight is no pushover.

No. 10-ranked bantamweight Bautista rides a seven-fight winning streak, last defeating José Aldo at UFC 307. His performance against Aldo wasn't well-received by fans, and a dominant victory for Mix could springboard him into title contention.

This article first appeared on MMA on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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