Pedro Carvalho is ready to write a new chapter. A familiar face on the European MMA circuit since his teens, the Portuguese fighter is best known globally for his 11-fight run in Bellator MMA. This Thursday, "The Game" takes another swing at his first Professional Fighters League victory, facing Sergio Cossio in a 165-pound catchweight showcase at PFL Belfast.

Carvalho's career seemed to peak in Bellator. A six-fight winning streak—highlighted by finishes of Derek Campos and UFC veteran Sam Sicilia—propelled him to a 2020 title shot against the legendary Patricio "Pitbull" Freire. After a knockout loss to the champion, Carvalho's momentum stalled with a series of tough defeats to contenders like Aaron Pico and Jeremy Kennedy.

His transition to the PFL brought more frustration, with controversial losses to Brendan Loughnane and Kai Kamaka II. "I felt disillusioned with the sport," Carvalho admitted. "Both fights felt very unfair. I disconnected for a long time. I wasn't in a good space, psychologically."

The path back began in the gym. "I eventually resolved to get back to training, which is something I enjoy," he said. "I love training. That's how I learned to love the sport again. My hunger to fight came back." That renewed passion paid off last October when he captured a featherweight title on the regional scene with a blistering 130-second submission.

Now, with his love for MMA rekindled, Carvalho steps back into the PFL SmartCage. A win in Belfast isn't just about his first PFL victory; it's about proving that a fighter's spirit, much like the best gear, can be tested and come back stronger. The high-stakes action kicks off Thursday night on ESPN2.