Anthony Pettis: Adding PFL title belt 'to my collection is going to feel amazing'

Having already won titles in multiple organizations, Anthony Pettis still strives for more.

Pettis (24-10), a former WEC and UFC lightweight champion, is embarking on a new quest in his career where he’ll be chasing the $1 million prize in the upcoming PFL lightweight season.

In the final bout of his UFC contract, Pettis earned a unanimous decision win over Alex Morono last December and opted to test free agency. He ended up signing with PFL and is looking forward to adding more gold to his collection.

“What drew me to signing with the PFL was the way they approached the deal,” Pettis told MMA Junkie. “It was more of a partnership, and they asked me what I really wanted. It’s been a fun career so far, and I’m looking forward to this new chapter of my career. Gonna be a busy year and adding another belt to my collection is going to feel amazing.”

Pettis takes on Clay Collard in the main event of PFL 1 on April 23, which will air on ESPN2 following prelims on ESPN+. In Collard, Pettis will face someone who’s spent his past couple of years boxing professionally. So while Pettis knows it won’t be easy, he’s confident he can get the finish.

“I see him being tough and durable,” Pettis said. “But I’m going find my openings and take them. It’s showtime baby.”

In a recent interview with MMA Junkie, reigning PFL lightweight champion Natan Schulte, who meets Marcin Held on opening night, said he’s anticipating a finals showdown with Pettis, and “Showtime” echoes the same sentiment.

“I’m expecting to see him in the finals,” Pettis said. “It will be a great matchup.”