Lapilus vs. McKee Set for Final PFL Bantamweight Title

Taylor Lapilus will defend his unbeaten PFL run against Mitch McKee on Dec. 19 in Lyon, France, with the inaugural PFL bantamweight championship on the line in what the promotion says will be its last event before rebranding as Most Valuable Promotions in 2027.

The 135-pound title fight headlines the card in Lapilus's home country, giving the French veteran a chance to become the first man to hold PFL bantamweight gold in front of his own fans.

How Did Lapilus and McKee Earn This Title Shot?

Taylor Lapilus arrives on the back of a four-fight winning streak under the PFL banner, a run that includes a win over Jake Hadley in his most recent bout this past May. Before joining PFL, he split time across two stints in the UFC, going 6-2 in that span. "My whole career has led to this moment," Lapilus said in a promotional release, adding that he wants to be remembered as part of a turning point for French MMA.

Mitch McKee comes in unbeaten, having punched his ticket to the title fight by beating former Bellator bantamweight champion Sergio Pettis by decision this past April in his first fight under the PFL banner, following an 8-0 run in LFA. "I've believed from day one that I'm the best bantamweight in the PFL, and in December I get the opportunity to prove it," McKee said, adding that fighting in Lapilus's home country adds an extra layer to the challenge.

What's the Betting Angle for Lapilus vs. McKee?

This is a genuine style clash worth watching closely as lines take shape. Lapilus is the more tested veteran with a longer track record against high level opposition, while McKee brings a wrestling heavy, undefeated profile but only one fight of experience inside the PFL cage. Books will likely weigh Lapilus's experience edge and home country crowd against McKee's untested ceiling as a prospect still building his resume at this level. Fans should watch for how the number moves once official odds open, since a夹 change in either direction would say a lot about how bookmakers view McKee's readiness for a five round title fight against a durable veteran on the road.

When and Where Is the PFL Bantamweight Title Fight?

The title fight takes place Dec. 19 in Lyon, France, closing out PFL's 2025 schedule before the promotion moves forward under the Most Valuable Promotions name in 2027. It follows a stretch of PFL events beginning Oct. 16 in Chicago and a pair of November shows. MVP CEO John Martin called Lyon one of the great fight cities in the world and said the event marks a major milestone for the company as it prepares for the transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is fighting for the inaugural PFL bantamweight title?

Taylor Lapilus faces Mitch McKee on Dec. 19 in Lyon, France, for the inaugural PFL bantamweight world championship.

What is Taylor Lapilus's recent record heading into the title fight?

Taylor Lapilus has won four straight fights under the PFL banner, including a win over Jake Hadley in May, after going 6-2 across two stints in the UFC.

Is Mitch McKee undefeated heading into the PFL title fight?

Yes, Mitch McKee is unbeaten and earned his shot at the PFL bantamweight title by beating former Bellator champion Sergio Pettis by decision in April.