In an electrifying lightweight main event at The Theater at Madison Square Garden, two of the most exhilarating fighters in the PFL and mixed martial arts went head-to-head. Clay Collard emerged victorious with a unanimous decision over Shane Burgos in a highly anticipated 155-pound semifinal matchup. This thrilling fight is destined to be remembered as one of the best of 2023, showcasing the true essence of the sport.
Collard, with a record of 24-10, secured his spot in his first PFL championship match with an impressive performance. The 30-year-old fighter from Utah endured a grueling battle, relentlessly absorbing low kicks to his lead left leg from Burgos. Despite the visible damage and limited mobility, Collard’s determination propelled him forward.
Burgos, the PFL’s prized acquisition in 2023 and previously undefeated in his home state of New York, faced an uphill battle. He entered the main event with a less than stellar year, only making the playoffs due to PFL’s suspension of lightweight Natan Schulte. Despite trailing on the scorecards after the first two rounds, Burgos showed resilience in the third, surviving a barrage of body punches and a knockdown.
For Collard, the path to the PFL finals has been a long and arduous one. Having fallen short in the previous two years, he believed he did enough to win in both the 2021 and 2022 campaigns, ending in decision losses. This year, however, he has demonstrated an unwavering resolve, determined to claim the championship title that has eluded him. His journey is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the human spirit.
Olivier Aubin-Mercier: A Formidable Opponent
Awaiting Collard in the finals is the 2022 lightweight champion, Olivier Aubin-Mercier. With a record of 20-5, the Canadian fighter has secured his second consecutive appearance in the finals. Aubin-Mercier exhibited his skill and prowess with a second-round TKO victory over Bruno Miranda, making him a formidable opponent for Collard. The clash between these two exceptional fighters will undoubtedly be a spectacle worth watching.
In the welterweight division, Sadibou Sy, the reigning 2022 champion, secured his place in the finals with a split decision over Carlos Leal. Sy’s journey to defend his title highlights the competitive nature of the PFL and the immense talent within the organization. Additionally, Magomed Magomedkerimov, the 2018 welterweight champion, secured his spot in the finals with a unanimous decision over Solomon Renfro.
The PFL finals will take place on November 24 in Washington, D.C., promising an evening of electrifying fights and unforgettable moments. As the culmination of a season filled with perseverance, determination, and sheer skill, the finals are sure to captivate fans worldwide.
The PFL semifinals showcased the caliber of talent within the organization and the relentless spirit of the fighters. Clay Collard’s victory over Shane Burgos and Olivier Aubin-Mercier’s triumph against Bruno Miranda set the stage for an epic showdown in the lightweight division. With Sadibou Sy and Magomed Magomedkerimov vying for the welterweight championship, the PFL finals promise a night to remember in the world of mixed martial arts.
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