By The Numbers: Denis Goltsov vs. Linton Vassell

Professional Fighters League, in its ambitious pursuit of global expansion and a bold stride towards bolstering the brand, is set to host the inaugural spectacle of the 2024 season: PFL 1. The first regular-season event of the year includes fights predominantly in the heavyweight and women's flyweight divisions. The event is set to grace the Boeing Center at Tech Port in San Antonio, Texas, on April 4. Among the marquee attractions set to offer an exciting blend of skill and spectacle, the co-main event slot pits Russian combat sports dynamo Denis Goltsov against longtime Bellator MMA heavyweight and light heavyweight contender Linton Vassell.

Goltsov is known far and wide for his sambo expertise and laurels, where he has been a two-time world champion, two-time European champion and a three-time Russian champion. “The Russian Bogatyr” fell short on his bid to claim victory in the PFL heavyweight tournament in 2023, succumbing via TKO to Renan Ferreira in the finals at PFL 10. Meanwhile, Vassell enters the upcoming fight riding a five-fight win streak in Bellator, which includes four finishes.

Before the heavyweights take center stage, we delve into some pivotal numbers that offer a comprehensive preview of the upcoming bout:

32: Goltsov has collected 32 victories in 40 professional fights since turning pro in 2010.

15: The Russian boasts 15 wins by KO/TKO, a testament to his raw strength and overall skillset.

11: With 11 submission victories, the 33-year-old brings a solid ground game built around his renowned sambo skills.

0:18: Goltsov recorded the fastest victory of his career in June 2023 when he folded Yorgan De Castro with a first-round KO in mere 18 seconds.

23: Vassell has 23 professional victories in 32 fights since he turned professional in 2008.

10: “Big Swarm” has rattled off 10 of those victories by KO/ TKO which speaks volumes about his striking prowess.

8: With 8 submission victories on his record, Vassell has consistently leveraged his comprehensive skillset to overcome his adversaries.

0:48: Vassell clocked a submission victory over Svajunas Siacuila in a mere 48 seconds, which remains his fastest victory to date.