Preview: PFL 1 ‘Collard vs. Stephens’

Lightweights

Don Madge (10-3-1, 1-0 PFL) vs. Raush Manfio (15-3, 4-0 PFL)

BETUS ODDS: Madge (-140), Manfio (+110)

Manfio was a revelation in 2021, emerging from a nearly three-year layoff to win the 2021 PFL lightweight championship and the $1 million prize that accompanies it. In doing so, the American Top Team product vanquished two of the organization’s more prized additions in Anthony Pettis and Clay Collard before outdueling Loik Radzhabov over five rounds in the final. Not bad for someone who was on the verge of retirement. The former Titan Fighting Championship titleholder is not a dynamic finisher at the highest level, but his conditioning and well-rounded striking abilities make him a tough out for virtually any opponent. Manfio’s standup arsenal includes solid punching combinations to the head and body, leg kicks and clinch work. Sturdy takedown defense, which was fully on display against Radzhabov, allows him to keep the action upright and gradually wear down his opposition. The Brazilian’s stamina is also an asset, as he is comfortable going the distance and displays the appropriate sense of urgency when a push is needed in the pivotal moments of a fight. Madge is an intriguing, if somewhat overlooked, PFL signing. The Johannesburg, South Africa, native rolled through Nathan Williams in his promotional debut following a 2-0 UFC stint that included a head-kick knockout of the heavily favored Te Edwards in his Octagon debut at UFC Fight Night 138. The former Extreme Fighting Championship titleholder enters his second PFL outing on a seven-bout professional winning streak. “Magic Man” has all the makings of an explosive finisher, only going the distance in a smothering performance against Fares Ziam in his second Octagon foray at UFC 242. At 6-feet tall, Madge is large for a lightweight and he blends muay Thai stylings on the feet with an aggressive submission game on the canvas—witness his roll into an omaplata reversal before taking Williams’ back for a rear-naked choke victory in his PFL debut in October. Manfio is more battle tested than his opponent and should have the advantage if the fight goes to the judges. However, Madge’s size and striking could pose problems for the defending champion, who has enjoyed his most success when fights remain upright. Watch as Madge manages to threaten Manfio in all positions and his cardio holds up to win a decision.

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