In an exhilarating matchup at the PFL semi-finals, featherweight fighter Jesus Pinedo from Peru delivered a monumental upset by defeating top-seeded Bubba Jenkins. Pinedo, at 27 years old, showed his prowess and determination against the former NCAA Division I national champion wrestler.
Jenkins, aiming for his second consecutive appearance in the PFL finals, relied heavily on his wrestling skills to control the 145-pound bout. However, Pinedo had other plans. He consistently thwarted Jenkins’ attempts to take him down, opting instead to dominate him on the feet.
Pinedo’s mastery in utilizing the jab and straight left hand proved to be his key weapons. Landing numerous shots to Jenkins’ chin, he inflicted significant damage, particularly on Jenkins’ right eye. Despite occasional takedowns from Jenkins, they were executed in defensive positions, with Pinedo quickly bouncing back to his feet.
Ultimately, Pinedo secured the victory with a standing TKO at 4:40 of the second round, leaving referee Kerry Hatley with no choice but to stop the fight. With this astonishing win, Pinedo’s path to the PFL finals has been solidified.
David vs. Goliath: Gabriel Alves Braga’s Journey to the Finals
Another remarkable performance came from Brazil’s Gabriel Alves Braga, who clinched his spot in the finals by defeating Chris Wade, a former PFL finalist. Braga showcased exceptional defensive wrestling skills throughout the bout, effectively neutralizing Wade’s attempts to impose his grappling game.
Braga’s path to the finals demonstrates the emergence of new talents within the PFL. With a flawless record of 12-0, his skills and determination have propelled him to success in the featherweight division. As he prepares to face Jesus Pinedo in the finals, fans eagerly await a showdown between these formidable fighters.
Light Heavyweights Claim the Spotlight
While the featherweight matchups stole the show, the light heavyweight division also witnessed two standout performances. Josh Silveira and Impa Kasanganay both showcased their skills with impressive finishes, securing their spots in the finals.
Josh Silveira, son of renowned MMA coach Conan Silveira, delivered a stunning knockout victory over Ty Flores in the first round. Utilizing vicious standing knees from the Thai clinch, Silveira displayed his striking prowess and sent a clear message to his future opponents in the finals.
Impa Kasanganay also made a statement with a highlight-reel one-punch knockout of Marthin Hamlet. The power and precision behind Kasanganay’s punch left no doubt about his capabilities as a top contender in the light heavyweight division.
A Changing of the Guard at PFL 2023
The PFL 2023 semi-finals marked a significant shift in the hierarchy of the promotion. All four winners of the night’s bouts advanced to the finals, overshadowing more established names in their respective divisions. This changing of the guard signifies the rise of new talents and brings a renewed sense of excitement to the PFL landscape.
The journey to the PFL 2023 playoffs continues, with the heavyweight and female featherweight divisions set to take the spotlight on August 18th in New York. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating tournament, the stage is set for more surprises and remarkable performances from the emerging stars of the PFL.
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