PFL Lyon: Lapilus vs. McKee for Inaugural Bantamweight Title in France

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has confirmed that the first-ever PFL Bantamweight World Championship bout will headline PFL Lyon. The highly anticipated event is set to take place on December 19 at the LDLC Arena, where French fighter Taylor Lapilus (#3, 25-4) will face the undefeated American contender Mitch McKee (#1, 11-0) in his home country.

This event marks the final PFL-branded show before a significant transition on January 1, 2027, when the organization will operate under the Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) name. This change follows the merger of PFL and MVP, aiming to deliver top-tier combat sports events globally.

Pre-sale tickets for PFL Lyon are currently available, with general sales commencing on Friday, September 11, at 12:00 PM CEST via pfl.info/lyon.

Lapilus, who joined PFL from the UFC where he achieved a 6-2 record, has been driven by the pursuit of championship gold since his PFL debut in 2025. Currently riding a six-fight win streak, the French fighter has showcased impressive dominance in his PFL appearances, securing victories over PFL MENA champions, former Cage Warriors titleholders, and a notable knockout against Kasum Kasumov. Known for his technical prowess and physical strength, Lapilus has consistently improved his performance, delivering commanding wins against opponents like Liam Gittins and Jake Hadley. His upcoming challenge is to overcome Mitch McKee and potentially become one of the first undisputed French MMA world champions.

McKee boasts an undefeated record of 11-0, with six wins by KO/TKO. He made a significant impact on the PFL rankings by defeating Sergio Pettis in his PFL debut at PFL Chicago earlier this year. Training under MMA legend Robbie Lawler at Kill Cliff FC, McKee is an accomplished wrestler, a three-time Minnesota state champion, and a six-time letterwinner in high school. He continued his wrestling career at the University of Minnesota, earning two All-American honors. With a strong collegiate wrestling background and a rapidly developing striking game, McKee presents a well-rounded threat poised to challenge Lapilus in front of his home crowd.

MVP CEO John Martin commented on the event, stating, "Lyon has become one of the great fight cities in the world, and the energy French fans bring for their athletes is palpable. On December 19, fans will have the opportunity to see one of their own fight for a world championship as Taylor Lapilus takes on the biggest test of his career in the undefeated Mitch McKee. Taylor has earned this opportunity with dominant performances, and now he has the chance to make history in front of his home crowd. The night will also mark a major milestone for our company as the final event under the PFL banner before we move forward as MVP in 2027. I can’t think of a better city or a better stage for it."

Reflecting on the fight, Taylor Lapilus expressed, "My whole career has led to this moment. I’m here to become champion, leave my mark on this sport, and cement my legacy. And when I look back, I want to know I was part of the moment everything changed for French MMA. This is more than a title fight. This is history in the making." He added, "To my people, you’ve supported me all the way through my career. On December 19, we need to make sure Mitch McKee knows what it’s like to enter the lion’s den at the LDLC Arena."

Mitch McKee shared his perspective: "Fighting for a PFL world title is exactly why I came here. Taylor is a great fighter, he’s experienced, and I know fighting him in France means I’m walking into his backyard. I wouldn’t want it any other way. 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. I’m going to Lyon to bring that belt home."

Updated PFL Lyon Main Card:

LDLC Arena – Lyon- Décines, France
Saturday, December 19, 2026

PFL Bantamweight World Championship Main Event: #3 Taylor Lapilus (25-4) vs. #1 Mitch McKee (11-0)