Larissa Pacheco’s Future in MMA Hinges on Weigh-Ins at Karate Combat 61

Larissa Pacheco, a prominent female fighter, is focusing on the upcoming weigh-ins for Karate Combat 61 in Miami. Her future in MMA may depend on her ability to successfully weigh in at 135 pounds. Pacheco became a free agent after leaving the PFL in October 2025 and is eager to compete in the UFC.

Despite her success in the PFL, where she won two seasons and handed Kayla Harrison her only MMA loss, Pacheco faces challenges in finding fights. She expressed, “There haven’t been many offers.” Pacheco believes that potential promoters prioritize the PFL’s prize money over opportunities to sign her.

Pacheco, now 31 years old, emphasizes her desire to remain active and relevant in the sport. She stated, “I need to stay active, stay in the spotlight, make people understand that I’m still an athlete in my prime.” Her last bout was a decision loss to Cris Cyborg, making her eager to return to the octagon.

A significant hurdle for Pacheco is the weight division. She has previously excelled at lightweight and featherweight but notes the UFC lacks these divisions. Pacheco hasn’t fought at bantamweight since 2015, when she faced Germaine de Randamie and Jessica Andrade.

Pacheco is set to return to bantamweight this week. Successfully weighing in at 135 pounds on May 1 will signal her readiness to the MMA community. “It’s not just about ‘I need to prove it to the UFC,’ but the UFC is still the organization that sets the standard for weight classes for the rest of the sport,” she remarked.

She indicated that her preferred weights are 155 and 145 pounds, stating, “I feel strong, I feel big, I can carry a lot of muscle mass.” However, she understands the importance of adapting for the bantamweight division to secure her competitive future. Pacheco aims to deliver a strong performance regardless of the promotion.

Pacheco admitted, “I never imagined I’d be able to make 135 again.” However, she recognizes the sport’s evolution since her early days in the UFC. With improved resources and support, she now sees the possibility of making weight.

She consulted her doctor about the feasibility of reaching 135 pounds. Her doctor reassured her, saying, “Larissa, it’s doable.” This confirmation motivated Pacheco to pursue this weight class for her upcoming fight.

Pacheco expressed confidence in her preparations, stating, “If you’re telling me it can be done safely, then let’s do it.” As she prepares for the weigh-ins and the fight against Julia Stasiuk, Pacheco’s focus remains on proving her fitness and skill in the bantamweight division.