PFL Returns to Chicago for Historic Women’s Title Fight

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) will return to Chicago on October 16, 2026, with Wintrust Arena hosting the crowning of the inaugural PFL Women’s Flyweight World Champion.

The event follows PFL’s landmark merger with Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), as the combined organization expands its global presence across MMA and boxing.

The championship bout will feature a highly anticipated rematch between Liz “Girl-Rilla” Carmouche (26-8) and submission specialist Jena Bishop (11-3). The two previously met in the 2025 PFL World Tournament final, where Carmouche secured a third-round TKO victory.

Carmouche remains one of the pioneers of women’s MMA. She competed against Ronda Rousey in the UFC’s first women’s fight in 2013 and later became a Bellator and PFL World Tournament champion. Having won 13 of her last 14 fights, including 10 by finish, she now has an opportunity to add another historic title.

Bishop, meanwhile, brings elite grappling credentials. A BJJ black belt and former IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, she has recorded seven submission victories across her 11 MMA wins. Since losing to Carmouche, Bishop has responded with consecutive first-round submissions to earn another championship opportunity.

The rematch will determine the first PFL Women’s Flyweight World Champion, adding another milestone to the promotion’s growing women’s division.

PFL CEO John Martin described Chicago as an important market for the organization and said the championship reflects the depth of talent across its roster.

With an established champion facing an elite submission specialist seeking redemption, PFL Chicago promises a defining night for the organization and women’s MMA.