Preview: PFL 8 2024 | Light Heavyweight, Lightweight Playoffs

Light Heavyweight Semifinal

Rob Wilkinson (19-2, 6-0 PFL) vs. Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov (23-7-1, 2-0 PFL)

Wilkinson tore through the light heavyweight tournament in 2022 but missed his chance to repeat after being suspended for PED use. Now, he’s one win away from claiming his spot back in the championship. The competition is tough, however. Yagshimuradov is one of the most experienced fighters on the PFL roster, and he has put the mileage to good use throughout the tournament. After starching Jakob Nedoh in the first round, “Wolfhound” followed up his performance with a dominant decision win over Simon Biyong. Although Yagshimuradov prides himself on his heavy hands and 13 career knockouts, he may want to employ his ground game against “Razor Rob.” Wilkinson is the best striker in the light heavyweight field, and the longer you stand with him, the more danger you’ll be in. He has one-punch power, added to the fact that he’s explosive and awkward. He knows how to get his shots off, so trading with him recklessly could be Yagshimuradov’s downfall. Although this is an intriguing matchup, it favors the former champ. Wilkinson is too slick to be caught by Yagshimuradov’s heavy bombs and will piece him up with crisp counters. If this fight goes to the ground, it could be anybody’s fight, but expect Wilkinson to make a statement early with a highlight-worthy knockout.

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Kasanganay vs. Silveira
Wilkinson vs. Yagshimuradov
Rabadanov vs. Dufort
Primus vs. Collard
Walsh vs. Stapleton
The Prelims