A look into the first PFL playoff slate
Photo: PFL
On August 13, PFL action will be back with its first slate of playoff matchups. After two regular season fights that began in April, PFL fighters are one step closer to that $1 million bonus that comes with the “PFL Champion” status.
After two bouts, the top four in every weight division as determined by points are not ready to move onto the first round of the playoffs. The first event of that round will feature the featherweights and lightweights on ESPN+.
Here is some important information about these matchups.
Chris Wade vs. Bubba Jenkins
The main event of the evening features two heavy-hitting fighters with tons of personality. Both of these guys are undefeated this season and looking to jump at the $1 million prize.
Of all the matchups, this one may have the most fanfare as Jenkins brings a cult following with his eccentric and captivating personality. Look for a high pace and a lot of swag come August 13.
Brendan Loughnane vs. Movlid Khaybulaev
With all of the 145ers being undefeated for the season, this is the class 1-seed vs. 4-seed matchup. Loughnane cemented himself in the division after beating Sheymon Moraes in the first round. He was the only featherweight to tally more than three points that night, so he was immediately on notice. He leads the scoreboard with nine points.
Khaybulaev proved that he was worthy of a playoff spot after defeating the former featherweight champion Lance Palmer in his final regular season bout.
This matchup should be one that could very well have a future champion coming out on top.
Clay Collard vs. Raush Manfio
The first lightweight bout of the evening comes between former UFC fighter and professional boxer Clay Collard and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner Raush Manfio. Collard’s return to MMA came with a shocking upset by beating former UFC champ Anthony Pettis. His boxing shone through and should be on display for this fight.
Based on Collard’s threats and Manfio’s experience, it is likely that the Brazilian will want the fight to go to the ground. This is the classic striker-grappler matchup that has created awesome moments.
Loik Radzhabov vs. Alexander Martinez
The final fight of the event will feature two fighters who finished the regular season 1-1. Although not being able to sweep the regular season, Radzhabov secured the top seed after a first round finish of Akhmed Aliev. This was enough to punch his ticket and set up a bout with Martinez.
Obviously, every fight starts on the feet, but there is a good chance that it hits the mat pretty quickly.
PFL will be back with the first round of the 2021 playoffs. Lightweights and featherweights will be the first two in line to move one step closer to that grand prize later this year. Tune in on August 13 on ESPN+ to catch all of the action.