Raush Manfio’s run in the PFL has come to an end.
Manfio, winner of the PFL’s 2021 lightweight season, announced Monday he’s no longer with the promotion and is a free agent. The Brazilian said he intends to continue his fighting career and is looking for a new home.
“What’s up guys! I want to share with you, I’m not been part of PFL anymore,” Manfio wrote on Instagram. “We have amazing years over there, but now it’s time for something new, I’m really grateful for every friend I did over there! And now? Where you want to see me fight ??? Share here at the comments , I been working with @suckerpunchent in the last 4 years and he already it’s trying put me to fight the year !!! WAR HORSE spirit! I’m really anxious to know what’s going next!”
Manfio’s (17-5) last appearance in the PFL cage was a controversial one.
The American Top Team product in June faced his friend and teammate Natan Schulte in their second regular season bout. Manfio lost to Schulte in an odd, lackluster unanimous decision.
Schulte advanced to the four-man playoffs, but then was controversially removed by the promotion for not showing his “best effort” against his friend. Schulte was replaced by former UFC fighter Shane Burgos.
Manfio was MMA Junkie’s 2021 Newcomer of the Year after his impressive breakout in his debut season with the PFL. Manfio, who entered the PFL lightweight season as an alternate, racked up four consecutive wins, including upsets of Anthony Pettis and Clay Collard, to win the 2021 PFL lightweight season and $1 million.
