PFL 10 2022 will be held at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City this Saturday. Loughnane and Jenkins will face off in the co-main event, before Kayla Harrison and Larissa Pacheco‘s women’s lightweight title bout. Each divisional winner will collect a nice million-dollar reward, along with champion status.
Kayla Harrison (15-0) v Larissa Pacheco (18-4)
Harrison looks unbeatable at the moment. She has already fought Larissa Pacheco twice, obviously winning both times. Because of the tournament’s nature, we’re here again to see a third fight between the two. Although Pacheco hasn’t been successful against Harrison in the past, she’s certainly worked on her power, which can put people away. She is coming in as a heavy underdog, but don’t be surprised if she is the one to push the pressure.
Prediction: Harrison by decision
Bubba Jenkins (19-5) v Brendan Loughnane (25-4)
There's some fresh talent facing off in the men's featherweight bout. Both contenders have had some solid performances to get here, so this could be a cracker. Jenkins had a lovely submission win and two decision victories on his road to the prize fight. With his offensive wrestling and crisp boxing, he likes to assert his dominance in the ring. Loughnane also fought hard to get here, with 2 decision wins and a technical decision triumph. His key has been his barrage of kicks, staying out of range and using his strength to control clinches.
Prediction: Jenkins by decision
Ante Delija (22-5) v Matheus Scheffel (17-8)
A heavyweight matchup that probably won’t be left to the judges. Ante Delija left the light heavyweight crowd and moved up to heavyweight to the joy of his former opponents. Delija is slick on the ground and is a technical striker, making him very well-rounded. Scheffel likes to push the pace and is always looking for that power punch that ends the fight. His aggression and deadly hands could get him over the line early, but he can’t make too many mistakes against a seasoned striker like Delija.
Prediction: Delija by knockout
Stevie Ray (25-10) v Olivier Aubin-Mercier (16-5)
This lightweight bout is going to be an absolute barn burner. For Stevie Ray, he utilised his ground game to dominate Anthony Pettis twice on the road to the championship. For Oliver Aubin-Mercier, he’s had some hard-fought wins to get here, displaying unbelievable heart and durability. Oliver seems to get going quickly and is swift with his hands, I think he could pull off a knockout victory.
Prediction: Olivier Aubin-Mercier by knockout
Sadibou Sy (12-6, 2 draws) v Dilano Taylor (10-2)
The welterweight championship looks to be an existing one too. Sadibou Sy made it here with three straight decision wins. He controlled and out-struck his opponents and used his fight IQ to outclass them. Dilano Taylor is as game as they come. He did lose to Magomed Magomedkerimov, but bounced back with an unbelievable knockout against former Bellator & UFC legend Rory MacDonald.
Prediction: Sadibou Sy by decision
Omari Akhmedov (24-7, 1 draw) v Rob Wilkinson (16-2)
The light heavyweight matchup is the one I’m keenest for. Dabble’s own Rob “Razor” Wilkinson looks to bring the belt and million-dollar cheque home to Australia. Since leaving the UFC, Rob has been on an absolute rampage. He’s racked up 5 wins and 4 by KO/TKO. His last 5 wins have been inside two rounds, with 4 of them in the first round. His PFL path to the belt has come in the form of 3 straight finishes. He pushes the pace, throws hard punches & utilises his knees. Omari Akhmedov will be Rob’s toughest test. Like Rob, he throws hard and can take shots. I think Rob will overwhelm him early, he likes to get going from the start and may stun Omari early. This one will be a barn burner, let’s go, Rob!
Prediction: Rob Wilkinson by Knockout
Julia Budd (16-4) v Aspen Ladd (9-3)
Julia Budd welcomes Aspen Ladd to the PFL cage at featherweight. Aspen is coming off two straight losses in the UFC and is looking to recreate herself in the PFL. Julia is also coming off a loss, so both fighters have everything to gain. This will be interesting.
Prediction: Aspen Ladd by Knockout