Larissa Pacheco (born September 7, 1994) is a Brazilian mixed martial artist who competes in the Women's Lightweight division. She is best known for her tenure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and for being the 2022 Professional Fighters League (PFL) Women's Lightweight Champion.
Early Life and Career
Larissa Pacheco began her professional mixed martial arts career in 2012. She quickly made a name for herself in the regional Brazilian circuit, compiling an undefeated record before signing with a major promotion. Her early career showcased her potent submission skills and striking ability, making her a formidable opponent.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
Pacheco made her UFC debut in 2014, competing in the Bantamweight division. She faced tough competition during her time in the promotion, including current and future champions. While her UFC run did not yield the desired results, the experience gained against elite fighters proved invaluable for her development.
Professional Fighters League (PFL)
After departing from the UFC, Pacheco joined the Professional Fighters League (PFL), a promotion known for its season-long tournament format. She transitioned to the Lightweight division, where she found significant success.
PFL Seasons
- 2019 Season: Pacheco made a strong impression in her debut PFL season, reaching the tournament final. In the final, she faced Kayla Harrison, one of the most dominant fighters in the sport. Despite a valiant effort, she lost to Harrison via unanimous decision.
- 2021 Season: Pacheco continued to be a top contender, but her season was cut short due to injury or other circumstances, preventing her from reaching the finals again.
- 2022 Season: This marked Pacheco's most successful year. She once again advanced through the PFL tournament, showcasing dominant performances. She met Kayla Harrison in the championship final for a third time. In a major upset, Pacheco defeated Harrison via unanimous decision, becoming the 2022 PFL Women's Lightweight Champion and earning the $1 million prize. This victory ended Harrison's undefeated streak and cemented Pacheco's status as a top-tier mixed martial artist.
Fighting Style
Larissa Pacheco is known for her aggressive and well-rounded fighting style. She possesses powerful striking, often utilizing her boxing and leg kicks effectively. In addition, she is a skilled grappler with a dangerous submission game, making her a threat both on her feet and on the ground.
Championships and Accomplishments
- Professional Fighters League
- PFL Women's Lightweight Champion (One time)
- 2022 PFL Women's Lightweight Tournament Winner
Professional Mixed Martial Arts Record
As of late 2023, Larissa Pacheco holds a professional MMA record that includes significant victories over highly-ranked opponents, most notably her championship win over Kayla Harrison.