Patchy Mix’s chapter in the UFC has come to an unexpected close, leading him to the other side of the globe. Just under a year after joining the promotion with high hopes, the former Bellator bantamweight champion has been officially released from the UFC.
According to MMA reporter Nolan King, Mix, now 32, will be making his return to Japan to compete under the RIZIN banner. This move appears sudden, yet it seems like an inevitable conclusion to a UFC stint that never fully materialized for him. King confirmed on X that Mix will be moving up to featherweight and is set to compete at RIZIN 52 on March 7 against Kyoma Akimoto, who has an impressive record of 11-1.
Mix’s departure from the UFC, which comes after two disappointing performances, may in part stem from his decision to shift weight classes. His release marks a moment for reflection and a potential fresh start; for RIZIN, it’s an opportunity to showcase a well-known name on their card.
Mix entered the UFC in May 2025 following the mutual parting with PFL, after Bellator underwent an absorption process. He came with an ambitious outlook and confidence, boldly stating in an ESPN interview that he considered himself not only the best bantamweight in Bellator but the best across the board.
However, his Octagon debut found him struggling. Mix took a fight at UFC 316 on short notice, stepping in for Marlon Vera against Mario Bautista, resulting in a unanimous decision loss. His second bout against former KSW champion Jakub Wikacz at UFC 320 ended in a split decision defeat despite many media outlets scoring the fight in his favor, marking the first time in his career he faced a multi-fight losing streak.
In the aftermath of his performance, Mix clarified that his departure from the UFC wasn’t abrupt. Instead, he described it as a delayed decision stemming from his loss in the octagon. At a RIZIN press conference, he revealed that after a five to six-week period of waiting, he was informed by his manager that he would be released. This interval allowed him time to reflect on his career and develop a clearer vision of his next steps.
Convinced that moving to featherweight was the right course of action, Mix mentioned that years of weight cutting had drained his enjoyment of combat sports. He expressed a strong desire to return to RIZIN, reminiscing about his previous fights there and the admiration he holds for the Japanese fanbase.
Mix is looking to make a name for himself in the featherweight division, targeting the champion Razhabali Shaydullaev as his ultimate goal. He intends to clear out the competition and seize the title. The evolution of Mix, now dubbed “Patchy 2.0,” represents a fighter’s renewed determination, ready to embrace a new chapter where he believes his skills and ambition can flourish. The true test of his resolve lies ahead as he attempts to rewrite his narrative in the ring.