In a stunning turn of events at the PFL 2023 playoffs, featherweight fighter Jesus Pinedo shocked the crowd with a massive upset over top-seeded Bubba Jenkins. Hailing from Peru, the 27-year-old Pinedo (22-6-1) displayed exceptional skill and resilience as he finished off the former NCAA Division I national champion wrestler with a standing TKO in the second round.
Jenkins (21-7) was vying for his second consecutive trip to the PFL finals and attempted to utilize his wrestling expertise to dominate the 145-pound bout. However, Pinedo showcased his defensive prowess, repeatedly stuffing Jenkins’ takedown attempts and asserting his dominance on the feet. Pinedo’s jabs and straight left hand found Jenkins’ chin repeatedly, causing significant damage to his opponent’s right eye.
Referee Kerry Hatley finally waved off the fight at 4:40 of the second round, acknowledging Pinedo’s impressive performance. This victory marked a significant milestone for Pinedo, who previously fought in the UFC but now has the opportunity to compete against Gabriel Alves Braga (12-0) in the PFL finals.
Impressive Performances in the Light Heavyweight Division
While Pinedo’s upset took the spotlight, there were also standout performances in the light heavyweight division. Josh Silveira (12-1), the son of renowned MMA coach Conan Silveira, showcased his striking skills by delivering a devastating knockout to Ty Flores. Silveira utilized vicious standing knees from the Thai clinch to secure a first-round victory.
Impa Kasanganay (14-3) also secured his spot in the finals with a spectacular one-punch knockout of Marthin Hamlet in the opening round. These impressive victories signaled a changing of the guard, as both Silveira and Kasanganay advanced to the finals for the first time, leaving more established names behind.
Looking Ahead
The PFL 2023 playoffs showcased a night filled with unexpected outcomes and remarkable performances. As the journey continues, the heavyweight and female featherweight divisions will take center stage on August 18th in New York. Fans eagerly anticipate further upsets, standout moments, and the emergence of new champions in these divisions.
The sport of mixed martial arts is constantly evolving, and the PFL playoffs serve as a testament to the depth of talent within the organization. Whether it’s underdogs defying the odds or rising stars making their mark, each fight is an opportunity for fighters to prove themselves and etch their names in MMA history.
As fans anxiously await the next installment of the PFL 2023 playoffs, one thing is certain: the stage is set for another night of thrilling matchups and unexpected outcomes.
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