PFL 2025 Season Overview

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is set to kick off its 2025 season on April 3 at Universal Studios in Orlando, featuring a roster stacked with former PFL and Bellator champions. This season introduces eight bracket-style tournaments, each consisting of eight fights divided by weight class, and will be broadcast on ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN+.

Premier First-Round Matches

Welterweight: Jason Jackson vs. Andrey Koreshkov (April 3)

Two former Bellator champions, Jason Jackson and Andrey Koreshkov, are set to clash in the welterweight division. Jackson, aiming to rebound from a recent title fight loss, will face Koreshkov, who is potentially on his last MMA run. Known for his elite striking and knockout power, Koreshkov will test Jackson's menacing pace and wrestling prowess.

Featherweight: Adam Borics vs. Jesus Pinedo (April 3)

Jesus Pinedo, the 2023 PFL featherweight champion, returns to face Adam Borics. Both fighters prefer striking and are always on the hunt for a knockout, making this a potential Fight of the Night candidate.

Lightweight: Marc Diakiese vs. Gadzhi Rabadanov (April 18)

Last season’s PFL lightweight champion, Gadzhi Rabadanov, faces Marc Diakiese, who has shown significant improvement in his wrestling and striking. This matchup promises to be a close contest, challenging the oddsmakers' predictions.

Light Heavyweight: Phil Davis vs. Rob Wilkinson (May 1)

Rob Wilkinson, the 2022 PFL light heavyweight champion, faces Phil Davis, a seasoned veteran with world-class wrestling skills. Davis aims to prove he remains among the best at 205 pounds.

Potential Championship Matchups

Middleweight: Impa Kasanganay vs. Aaron Jeffery

A clash of knockout artists, Impa Kasanganay and Aaron Jeffery, promises an entertaining battle combining power, wrestling, and cardio.

Lightweight: Alexander Shabliy vs. Gadzhi Rabadanov

Two of the division's best, Alexander Shabliy and Gadzhi Rabadanov, could potentially face off in a five-round championship final, showcasing their well-rounded skillsets.

Welterweight: Jason Jackson vs. Magomed Umalatov

A battle between Jason Jackson and Magomed Umalatov would feature strong wrestling backgrounds and knockout potential if the fight remains on the feet.

Featherweight: Jesus Pinedo vs. Movlid Khaybulaev

Former champions Jesus Pinedo and Movlid Khaybulaev could compete in a thrilling matchup, showcasing different fighting styles and championship pedigree.

Conclusion

The PFL 2025 season promises an exciting array of fights, from first-round clashes to potential championship matchups. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, this season is a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.