Philipe Lins, the former PFL heavyweight champion, has reemerged onto the open market of mixed martial arts free agency. Following the conclusion of his contract with the UFC, where he amassed a commendable four-fight win streak, sources familiar with the matter have confirmed to MMA Fighting’s Guilherme Cruz.
Despite his impressive record, the UFC opted not to renew Lins’ contract, leaving the door open for potential reentry into the promotion. Nevertheless, Lins is now free to explore opportunities elsewhere in the MMA world.
At 38 years old, Lins boasts a wealth of experience competing across the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions in various promotions including Bellator, PFL, and the UFC. Notably, in 2018, he embarked on a remarkable journey, clinching victory in four consecutive bouts to claim the prestigious PFL season heavyweight title and the hefty $1 million grand prize.
Upon transitioning to the UFC, Lins faced formidable opponents in the heavyweight division, enduring setbacks against the likes of Andrei Arlovski and Tanner Boser. However, he quickly rebounded, embarking on an impressive four-fight win streak upon returning to the light heavyweight category.
Among Lins’ recent triumphs is a notable victory over Ion Cutelaba at UFC 299, where he secured a unanimous decision. Highlighting his current streak is a remarkable 49-second knockout victory over Ovince Saint Preux, a former UFC interim title challenger.