Brazilian lightweight Natan Schulte is ready to turn the page on one of the most controversial chapters of his MMA career. After more than 1,000 days away from professional competition, the two-time PFL season champion has re-signed with the organization and is preparing for his comeback fight against undefeated prospect Jakub Kaszuba at PFL's Pittsburgh event on March 28. This return marks a significant moment for an athlete who has spent considerable time reflecting on the decisions that led to his extended absence.
The Long Road Back to Competition
Over three years have passed since Schulte's last appearance inside the PFL cage, making this comeback one of the most anticipated returns in the lightweight division. During his time away from active competition, the Brazilian has focused extensively on physical recovery and technical refinement at American Top Team, one of the sport's most respected training facilities. Schulte's financial stability allowed him the luxury of training without the pressure of upcoming bouts, giving him the opportunity to address lingering injuries and evolve his fighting skills without compromise.
This extended hiatus, while unconventional, has given Schulte perspective on what truly matters in his career. Rather than viewing this period as lost time, he has approached it as a phase of personal development and strategic thinking. The layoff has allowed him to reset mentally and approach his return with renewed purpose and understanding of his place in modern professional mixed martial arts.
The Manfio Fight That Changed Everything
When Teammates Become Opponents
The catalyst for Schulte's departure from PFL was a controversial 2023 matchup against his training partner and friend Raush Manfio. The two competitors trained together at American Top Team in Florida and shared a deep personal bond—Manfio serves as godfather to Schulte's daughter. Despite their close relationship, PFL matched them against each other for a spot in the 2024 lightweight playoffs, forcing both fighters into an uncomfortable position.
The decision to book this fight created significant tension between the athletes and management. Both Schulte and Manfio were conflicted about facing one another professionally, knowing the personal consequences that could result from their actions inside the cage. This situation highlighted a challenging reality in professional sports where business decisions sometimes override personal relationships and athlete comfort.
A Performance That Drew Heavy Criticism
Schulte ultimately won the decision against Manfio, extending his winning streak to four consecutive victories in the promotion. However, the fight itself failed to meet fan expectations or meet what the organization described as