PFL Bantamweight World Championship to be Decided in France

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has announced that the inaugural PFL Bantamweight World Championship will headline the PFL Lyon event. French contender Taylor Lapilus (#3 seed, 25-4) will face the undefeated American Mitch McKee (#1 seed, 11-0) for the title on December 19th at the LDLC Arena in Lyon, France.

This event signifies the final outing under the PFL banner before a new era begins on January 1, 2027, when promotions will operate as Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). This transition follows the merger of PFL and MVP, uniting the organizations to deliver top-tier combat sports to a global audience.

Pre-sale tickets for PFL Lyon are currently available, with general sales commencing Friday, September 11th at 12:00 PM CEST via pfl.info/lyon.

Lapilus, who joined PFL from the UFC where he achieved a 6-2 record, has been focused on securing championship gold since his PFL debut in 2025. Currently riding a six-fight win streak, the French fighter has demonstrated dominance in his PFL bouts, defeating PFL MENA champions, former Cage Warriors titleholders, and securing a notable knockout against Kasum Kasumov. Known for his technical prowess and physical presence, Lapilus has consistently improved, delivering commanding performances against opponents like Liam Gittins and Jake Hadley. His upcoming bout against McKee represents his final challenge on the path to becoming one of the first undisputed French MMA world champions.

McKee, boasting an undefeated record of 11-0 with six wins by KO/TKO, quickly ascended the PFL rankings after a dominant performance against Sergio Pettis at PFL Chicago earlier this year. Training at Kill Cliff FC under MMA legend Robbie Lawler, McKee is a decorated wrestler, a three-time Minnesota state champion, and a six-time letterwinner. He continued his wrestling career at the University of Minnesota, earning two All-American honors. With a strong collegiate wrestling background and a developing striking game, McKee presents a well-rounded threat, eager to challenge Lapilus on his home turf.

MVP CEO John Martin commented, "Lyon has become one of the great fight cities in the world, and the energy French fans bring for their athletes is palpable. On December 19, fans will have the opportunity to see one of their own fight for a world championship as Taylor Lapilus takes on the biggest test of his career in the undefeated Mitch McKee. Taylor has earned this opportunity with dominant performances, and now he has the chance to make history in front of his home crowd. The night will also mark a major milestone for our company as the final event under the PFL banner before we move forward as MVP in 2027. I can’t think of a better city or a better stage for it."

Reflecting on the upcoming fight, Taylor Lapilus stated, "My whole career has led to this moment. I’m here to become champion, leave my mark on this sport, and cement my legacy. And when I look back, I want to know I was part of the moment everything changed for French MMA. This is more than a title fight. This is history in the making." He added, "To my people, you’ve supported me all the way through my career. On December 19, we need to make sure Mitch McKee knows what it’s like to enter the lion’s den at the LDLC Arena."

Mitch McKee expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity: "Fighting for a PFL world title is exactly why I came here. Taylor is a great fighter, he’s experienced, and I know fighting him in France means I’m walking into his backyard. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’ve believed from day one that I’m the best bantamweight in the PFL, and in December I get the opportunity to prove it. I’m going to Lyon to bring that belt home."

Updated PFL Lyon Main Card:

LDLC Arena – Lyon- Décines, France
Saturday, December 19, 2026

PFL Bantamweight World Championship Main Event: #3-Taylor Lapilus (25-4) vs. #1-Mitch McKee (11-0)