The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is shaking up the MMA landscape with its 2025 World Tournament. Kicking off on April 3 at Universal Studios Florida, the tournament features 64 elite fighters across eight weight classes, each vying for a $500,000 win bonus out of the whopping $ 20 million total prize pool, not to mention the coveted championship title. Here are the standout bouts to watch as the PFL’s bold new era begins.
Welterweight: Jason Jackson vs. Andrey Koreshkov (April 4)
The PFL 2025 World Tournament starts off next month with a cracker as two former Bellator champs collide. Jason Jackson, with an 18-5 MMA record, brings a well-rounded game and knockout power, while Andrey Koreshkov (28-5) comes into the bout on great form having won 6 out of his last 7 fights. Expect a striking clinic with a chance for an early finish.
Featherweight: Jesus Pinedo vs. Adam Borics (April 4)
The 2023 PFL featherweight champ, Jesus Pinedo (23-6) faces Bellator contender Adam Borics (19-2) to see who progresses to the semis. Pinedo’s grappling prowess meets Borics’ dynamic striking, with the formers title defense experience giveing him a slight advantage in this one.
Women’s Flyweight: Taila Santos vs. Juliana Velasquez (April 12)
Since debuting for the PFL last year, Santos, a former UFC title challenger 2024 PFL finalist, brings elite grappling and finishing ability to the fight, while Velasquez, a former Bellator star, counters with her own submission threat. Both fighters are known for their durability so don’t be surprised if this one goes the distance – a potential ‘Fight of the Night’. Santos’ recent momentum might tip the scales, but Velasquez’s experience could steal the spotlight.
Middleweight: Impa Kasanganay vs. Fabian Edwards (April 18)
The middleweight division kicks off with a blockbuster as Impa Kasanganay (18-5), a former PFL light heavyweight champ, returns to his natural 185-pound class to face Fabian Edwards (13-4). Kasanganay’s devastating knockout power meets Edwards’ aggressive striking and takedown defense. This main event could be a slugfest, with Kasanganay’s cardio and finishing instinct clashing against Edwards’ tenacity as the brother of former UFC Champion, Leon, looks to get back tow inning ways following a defeat to Johnny Eblen.
Lightweight: Alexandr Shabliy vs. Brent Primus (April 18)
The 2024 PFL finalist Brent Primus (15-4-0, 1 NC) faces Alexandr Shabliy (24-4) on the third night of action from the World Tournament. Shabliy’s Bellator pedigree and well-rounded skills face Primus’ relentless pace and submission game. This bout could showcase technical brilliance or a chaotic scramble—either way, it’s a must-watch. Shabliy’s recent form makes him the favorite, but Primus’ heart could turn this into an upset.
Light Heavyweight: Phil Davis vs. Rob Wilkinson (May 2)
The light heavyweight bracket closes the first round with a veteran showdown. Phil Davis (24-7, 1 NC), a former Bellator champ, brings world-class wrestling, while 2022 PFL winner Rob Wilkinson (19-3, 1 NC) counters with knockout power. Davis’ experience might give him an edge, but Wilkinson’s youth and aggression could overwhelm if he lands clean. This featured bout could go the distance or end abruptly—either outcome promises excitement.
Heavyweight: Valentin Moldavsky vs. Sergey Bilostenniy (May 2)
The heavyweight co-main event pits former Bellator interim champ Valentin Moldavsky (13-4) against Sergey Bilostenniy (13-3) in a battle of heavy hitters. Moldavsky’s technical wrestling faces Bilostenniy’s raw power and finishing ability. With heavyweights often delivering quick knockouts, this fight could be over in seconds—or turn into a grueling grind.
Where to watch
The 2025 PFL World Tournament offers significant prize money for those who progress, making it a must watch. With $20 million in total prize money and the introduction of elbows in all bouts, lives could be changed for the stars of the PFL. The first-round fights will be live on ESPN platforms in the U.S. and DAZN internationally from April through May.
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