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What’s next for AJ McKee Jr?

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After winning the biggest fight of his career at Bellator 263, AJ McKee Jr is now the owner of $1 million and the featherweight title. Not only did McKee win, but he beat Patricio Pitbull by first-round submission, becoming only the second fighter to finish him during his 37 fight career.

Since turning pro in 2015, McKee has always had the dream of becoming a world champion. Despite holding a record of 17-0, the lack of high-level competition faced left McKee unproven. Now with a win against Pitbull, McKee has reached superstar status in the MMA world. With several possible options, MMA fans have begun to debate what may be next for the undefeated 26-year-old.

Attempt to become Bellator double champion

Before losing at Bellator 263, Pitbull was considered the greatest fighter in promotional history. Despite taking the loss well, Pitbull most likely wants revenge on McKee, leaving Bellator with an interesting decision. Pitbull is still currently the lightweight champion, and going up in weight should be easy for McKee. If McKee chooses to wait for a #1 contender at featherweight, Bellator could give him the chance to become the fourth “champ champ” in promotional history.

Clear the featherweight division

Another option for McKee is to stay at featherweight and assert his dominance over the division. After beating Pitbull, it is hard to imagine anyone at featherweight giving him trouble. With that being said, several prospects have continued to improve on their way to a title shot. Rising featherweight contenders include Adam Borics, Aaron Pico, and Mads Burnell. Although those fighters are not ready yet, a future matchup against McKee would be must-see action.

AJ McKee Jr to UFC?

Whenever a fighter begins to find success in MMA, fans always ask why they are not in the UFC. Usually, it is because they are not ready, but not in this scenario. After beating Pitbull, McKee stated his interest in fighting featherweights outside of Bellator. McKee has the potential to do damage in the UFC, but at what cost? Surely Bellator is paying McKee a large amount of money that the UFC will not. All things considered, his growing popularity has to be intriguing for the UFC.