PFL 3: 2024 Regular Season: Wintrust Arena; Chicago, Illinois
First it was at heavyweight. This time out the Russians dominate again but in welterweight. It’s far too early to say who will walk away with a gold belt and a million dollars, However, things do look interesting.
Shamil Musaev stunned the Windy City crowd by flatlining former Bellator champion, Logan Storley seconds into round two. Murad Ramazanov used a slick rear-naked choke for his victory. And it was Magomed Umalatov using a stifling ground game to snag a unananimous decision 29-28 win.
It may not have been aesthetically, but the former Khabib Nurmagomedov has used the powers of ATT to help improve the game. Although early on it was Andrey Koreshkov using a kicking game and being more active from the bottom. Then came the controlling top game of the now ATT pupil. Umalatov’s three takedowns equated to 73-of-85 ground strikes. As well as hunting for a couple of submissions.
Russians Dominate Again In The Smart Cage
It’s not to say those that took an “L” can’t find their way into the playoffs let alone win the titles. They can. However, the hill to climb is a steep one. But with two fighters still undefeated, and looking crisp, doubts might start creeping into heads.
Musaev’s compossed and pin point striking had to send a message throughtout the division. And Umalatov showed if he can bring you down to the canvas, you might not get back up. Only because Koreshkov is such a veteran it kept him from getting finished.
If these two met at the end of the year, only because fights start on the feet Musaev would get an edge. And he didn’t even show his ground skills on this night. But you can bet all ATT coaches will have it figured out. Umalatov will most likely rely on front kicks to keep his fellow countryman at bay. And along the fence put the pressure on him, before dragging him to the mat.
Granted, this isn’t the Olympics, but no one should be suprised if Russia has the most belts at the end of 2024.
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