Preview: PFL 8, 2022 Playoffs

2022 PFL Heavyweight Semifinals

#1 | Denis Goltsov (29-7, 7-2 PFL) vs. #7 | Matheus Scheffel (16-8, 1-1 PFL)

ODDS: Goltsov (-330), Scheffel (+250)

Scheffel was able to sneak into the playoffs as a result of an injury to Bruno Cappelozza, but his presence seems justified since he did just upset the defending heavyweight champion in June. The former Dana White’s Contender Series competitor beat Cappelozza at his own game, engaging in a brawl with his fellow Brazilian and absorbing everything his opponent had to offer. Considering that “Buffa” has suffered six of his eight professional defeats by knockout or technical knockout, trading with Cappelozza would seemed to have been a risky proposition, but Scheffel’s chin held up to help him pull off one of the more significant upsets of the PFL campaign. Goltsov, meanwhile, performed as expected in two regular-season bouts, earning victories over outmatched opponents Cody Goodale and Maurice Greene. The former Absolute Championship Berkut titleholder and combat sambo champion has a wealth of PFL experience, but previous bids to win the $1 million prize ended in playoff defeat.

Expect Scheffel to do his best to engage Goltsov in a slugfest, because that represents his best chance to win. While the Russian owns a solid jab and is capable of landing a variety of kicks, he has the necessary tools to take Scheffel out of his comfort zone. Goltsov will look to close distance and force his way into the clinch, where he is capable of executing trips and throws. His offensive wrestling is formidable, as he will rely on heavy top pressure while landing ground-and-pound and attempting to advance position to hunt for chokes. Scheffel’s wild tendencies will likely come back to haunt him in this fight, and it’s entirely possible that Goltsov rocks him with a counter in an exchange. However, “The Russian Bogatyr” will not engage in an extended standup battle with Scheffel, so expect Goltsov to look to ground the Brazilian early and often. Goltsov by decision or submission is the pick.

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MacDonald vs. Umalatov
Delija vs. Ferreira
Goltsov vs. Scheffel
Sy vs. Miranda
The Prelims
Qualifiers