Corey Anderson requested his release from the UFC and signed with Bellator, hoping for a bright future. Little did he know how things would unfold.
Shortly after joining Bellator, Anderson had a positive meeting with Bellator president Scott Coker and matchmaker Mike Kogan, which reassured him about his decision. However, he did not receive the same level of communication from PFL executives following their acquisition of Bellator, leaving him with unanswered questions.
As 2025 approaches, Anderson, along with other Bellator fighters, is expressing concerns about PFL’s plans for them due to a lack of clarity.
Anderson praised Scott Coker and Mike Kogan for keeping their promises and expressed his frustrations with PFL’s lack of communication and unclear plans.
While Anderson has voiced his frustrations, he has not demanded his release from PFL like some of his Bellator peers.
Reigning Bellator champions Patchy Mix and Patricio Pitbull have requested releases from their contracts due to uncertainty and lack of communication from PFL.
Anderson empathizes with Mix and Pitbull’s frustrations and highlights the importance of honoring commitments and communication in the fight game.
Anderson appreciates the integrity and transparency shown by Scott Coker and Mike Kogan, contrasting it with the lack of clarity from PFL.
Despite the merger between PFL and Bellator, Anderson has not had direct communication with PFL executives, with Kogan being his main point of contact.
Anderson questions PFL’s plans and expertise in the fight game, expressing uncertainty about their direction.
While hoping for a positive outcome, Anderson remains skeptical about PFL’s plans and eagerly awaits more clarity and opportunities.
Anderson had expected to fight Nemkov in January but the bout was canceled, leaving him uncertain about his next fight.
Despite promises of a fight in early 2025, Anderson has yet to receive an official confirmation or bout agreement.
Financially secure, Anderson is not under financial stress due to lack of fights, but he yearns to compete and defend his belt.
At 35, Anderson acknowledges the limited time he has left in the sport and is eager to get back in the octagon.
“I’m at peace,” Anderson said. “I would love to fight and keep defending the belt.”
I have a strong desire to continue fighting and defending my belt, but I also recognize that things can change. If Bellator were to cease operations or the UFC didn’t offer me a contract, or if a health issue prevented me from competing, I would be content walking away from the sport. I have dedicated 12 years to this career, starting with no experience, winning The Ultimate Fighter, joining the major leagues, and becoming a champion. I have achieved my goals and now I can focus on enjoying life and spending time with my children.