PFL 1 2023 Regular Season, Season 5: The Theater At Virgin Hotels; Las Vegas
They say in combat sports when you become champion, you automatically become 30% better. If that’s true the PFL may have some back-to-back champions at the end of the year. Week one saw both last years champions Rob Wilkinson and Brendan Loughnane successful. The Englishman shredded former WSOF champion and former UFC fighter Marlon Moraes apart. And post-fight Brendan Loughnane stakes claim to keep the belt in London. Telling Sean O’Connell:
“I think the message is quite clear (in regards to his fights). Violence! Me and (Movlid) Khaybulaev five-rounds in London”.
Moraes is becoming a bit of a shell of his former self. While he’s still quick, it’s just not the same. Loughnane fought in his range well with a solid jab, but what took the soul from “Magic” was the kicking attack. Loughnane attacked both legs inside and outside, leaving both swelling. There was a question to whether he’d even be able to come out for the second-round.
Needing to pull a rabbit out of his hat Moraes blitzed the 33-year old with wild swings that weren’t landing. Thanks to Loughnane being on his bike. Then he landed his 18th shattering leg kick. With him crumbling to the canvas, referee KEITH PETERSON jumped in to stop the fight at the 1:11 mark. Outstriking Moraes 22-10 and landing 18-of-18 kicks, Loughane also grabbed Finish Of The Night.
Things aren’t yet at a BJ Penn status but, Moraes has now lost six-in a row. His last win coming way back at UFC 245 in December of 2019. And that split decision win over Jose Aldo was a controversial one.
Brendan Loughnane Stakes Claim, But Is He Also Prophetic
He now sits atop the division with five-points. Yes anything can happen in a season, but now on a five-fight win streak, and grabbing his 15th finish and 14th KO, he’s never looked better. His call of him versus 2021 champion at 145, Movlid Khaybulaev seems spot on.
Looking at that matchup, is interesting. The Russian has gone to the cards his last five-fights on his way to a six-fight win streak. Including against Loughnane split-decision. Khaybulaev likes to control the action on the ground, despite only having two-submission wins. But he also can rip the body in close fighting.
With his reach advantages, the key is if Loughnane can keep the fight in the open. Chop his legs early and pepper him with his right jab. And this time it would be doubly sweet. Avenge a loss and become a two-time champion.
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