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Federico Valverde reveals PFL inspired celebration vs Atletico Madrid

Originally posted on HITC | By Donagh Corby | Last updated Mar 24, 2026 12:56 PM ET

Federico Valverde was a busy man at the Bernabeu this past Sunday, possibly still riding the adrenaline from a night out at the fights just two days earlier.

The midfielder was among several Real Madrid players who took in PFL Madrid on Friday night, joining Thibaut Courtois and Jude Bellingham. Valverde had a particular interest in Luciano Pereira’s bout, with both hailing from Uruguay.

Valverde got what he came for. He was there to see Pereira pick up an impressive first-round win over Kevin Cordero. Just a couple of days later, he found himself back in action, finding the net in the Madrid derby before being sent off under somewhat questionable circumstances.

Valverde’s busy weekend: Madrid Derby goal, red card, and Uruguayan PFL win

Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images

Just days before the Madrid Derby, a few of Real’s squad enjoyed a night out at the fights. Van Steenis walked away with the title after a third-round TKO, but it was an earlier bout that really caught Valverde’s eye.

Pereira made a statement in his promotional debut with a first-round knockout. The pair met backstage afterwards, and Valverde presented him with a match-worn shirt as a token of appreciation. They shared some words and took photos together before Valverde headed back to his hotel.

Fast forward to Sunday, and Valverde delivered one of the most memorable moments of his career against Atletico. After scoring to put Real ahead 2-1, he celebrated by mimicking Pereira’s knockout finish from earlier in the week.

But soon after that celebration, he was shown red for a late tackle. Real have appealed against what many felt was an overly harsh decision.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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