Ryan Bader felt it was the right moment to move on.
After a year since his last PFL fight, due to his role in “The Smashing Machine” movie, Bellator heavyweight champion Ryan Bader was uncertain about his next fight schedule. This led to amicable discussions with PFL about parting ways. Bader emphasizes there`s no animosity with PFL despite ending his contract with one fight remaining.
Bader explained to MMA Fighting that leaving PFL was largely his decision. As the Bellator heavyweight champion, he felt his position became somewhat unclear with the merger and PFL`s tournament structure.
“For me, I just felt like it’s going to be a little while [before I fight again], it’s kind of unclear so we had a good talk with them and decided to go our own separate ways. We were happy with the outcome. They were great to us, and I had an absolute blast with that run in Bellator. I’ll look back very fondly on that.” Bader stated, reflecting on his positive experience with Bellator.
Bader`s sole PFL appearance resulted in a loss to Renan Ferreira in February 2024, a fight that determined who would face Francis Ngannou.
Shortly after, Bader received an unexpected opportunity to act in “The Smashing Machine,” alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt.
Filming the movie occupied Bader for months, and he appreciated PFL`s understanding and flexibility despite his contractual obligations.
“With that movie they were great, they were like go do your thing, we’ll be here after,” Bader acknowledged. He was pleased they reached a mutually agreeable parting after his movie commitment. He maintains positive feelings towards both organizations.
A significant factor in Bader`s decision to leave PFL was his current career stage.
At 41, Bader is aware his retirement is approaching and wasn`t keen on participating in a PFL tournament. Furthermore, potential matchups seemed limited, possibly leading to rematches with fighters he had already faced in Bellator.
“I felt like I didn’t have a ton to prove anymore,” Bader admitted. He cherished his Bellator run, but felt it was becoming repetitive. The tournament format was also less appealing due to financial considerations for the organization and the frequency of fights required. The movie opportunity provided perfect timing for a change, allowing him to control his next steps.
“For me, it was just perfect timing. It took away that unknown even though I’m in a different unknown, I can kind of steer where I’m going. We’re happy where we’re at. I had a blast in those organizations. We’ll just see what next. I believe there will be something next, at least one more.” Bader expressed.
Now a free agent for the first time since 2017, when he joined Bellator from the UFC, Bader anticipates various options.
Similar to his PFL departure, Bader left the UFC on good terms and has maintained a positive relationship, even returning to *The Ultimate Fighter* to assist Michael Chandler.
Could a UFC return be on the horizon for Bader`s final fights?
“My manager and I we definitely talked about how cool it would be come back for even one more fight,” Bader revealed. He considers ending his career where it began as appealing. Opportunities with RIZIN in Japan, given the movie`s setting and storyline, are also intriguing. However, he clarified he is not looking for multiple fights, perhaps just one or two as a farewell.
UFC isn`t his only option. Bader mentioned immediate interest from other promotions after his PFL release.
“I’m leaving everything open right now,” Bader stated. He confirmed contact with RIZIN and potential interest in grappling on UFC Fight Pass or even a boxing deal.
“I’ve been a competitor my whole life and trying to be the best at it. From wrestling, collegiate wrestling, getting into MMA, *Ultimate Fighter*, 20 fights in the UFC to Bellator and my mindset’s always been win. Just win and take care of itself.” Bader emphasized his competitive drive.
Ultimately, Bader seeks enjoyable fights to conclude his career, without the pressure of title pursuits. He has already achieved significant milestones and now aims to savor his remaining time in the sport.
“So I want to have something come up where it’s fun and I can go out and be like this is fun,” Bader concluded. He looks forward to the training, the feeling of entering the cage, and the satisfaction of achieving a win. He is open to opportunities that are both interesting and financially viable, with several promising prospects already emerging.
