PFL Chicago 2026: Pettis Defeats McKee in Main Event Clash

Veteran Sergio Pettis outduels rising prospect Mitch McKee in thrilling main event bout

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:13am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a mixed martial arts match, with the fighters' movements and the energy of the fight captured through sharp, overlapping geometric planes in a vibrant color palette.The PFL Chicago event delivered a thrilling main event clash, with veteran Sergio Pettis outdueling rising prospect Mitch McKee in a display of skill and strategy.Chicago Today

The highly anticipated PFL Chicago event delivered an evening of non-stop MMA action, headlined by a clash between former Bellator champion Sergio Pettis and undefeated prospect Mitch McKee. Pettis, a seasoned veteran, aimed to solidify his status as a top contender, while the debuting McKee sought to make a statement on the big stage. The main card also featured other compelling matchups, including Raufeon Stots vs. Renat Khavalov and Viviane Araujo vs. Shanna Young.

Why it matters

Events like PFL Chicago showcase the ever-evolving nature of MMA, providing a platform for fighters to build their legacies and engage in the ultimate test of strength and strategy. The sport's ability to consistently deliver high-octane entertainment keeps fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next big event.

The details

In the main event, Sergio Pettis, with a record of 25-7, used his experience and technical prowess to outmaneuver the undefeated Mitch McKee, who was making his PFL debut. Pettis' recent victory over Magomed Magomedov, secured with a spectacular spinning back elbow, demonstrated his continued dominance in the promotion. McKee, at 10-0, had built his reputation primarily in the LFA promotion and was looking to make a statement on the bigger stage.

  • The PFL Chicago event took place on April 13, 2026.
  • Pettis and McKee's main event bout was the headlining fight of the evening.

The players

Sergio Pettis

A former Bellator bantamweight champion with a professional record of 25-7, Pettis is a seasoned veteran in the world of MMA and a top contender in the PFL promotion.

Mitch McKee

An undefeated prospect with a record of 10-0, McKee was making his PFL debut, having spent most of his career competing in the LFA promotion.

Raufeon Stots

A skilled fighter who competed in a compelling matchup on the main card of the PFL Chicago event.

Renat Khavalov

Stots' opponent in the main card matchup, Khavalov brought his own unique set of skills and experience to the octagon.

Viviane Araujo

A fighter who participated in a main card bout at the PFL Chicago event, showcasing her talents against Shanna Young.

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What they’re saying

“Events like PFL Chicago are a testament to the ever-evolving nature of MMA. They provide a platform for fighters to showcase their skills, build their legacies, and engage in the ultimate test of strength and strategy.”

— Terrell Hackett, Sports Journalist

What’s next

The PFL will continue its 2026 season, with the next event scheduled for June in New York City. Fans will eagerly await the announcement of the full fight card and the potential for future matchups between top contenders like Pettis and rising stars like McKee.

The takeaway

The PFL Chicago event demonstrated the depth and talent within the promotion, with both established veterans and promising newcomers showcasing their skills. The main event between Pettis and McKee highlighted the contrast between experience and youthful exuberance, providing a thrilling conclusion to the evening's action.