Preview: PFL 7 ‘Jenkins vs. Pinedo’

Lightweights

Keoni Diggs (10-2, 0-0 PFL) vs. Elvin Espinoza (8-0, 2-0 PFL)

Diggs began his MMA career with a 9-0 mark that included a dominant decision over veteran brawler Derek Campos, but his momentum was derailed somewhat in back-to-back decision defeats against Daniel Weichel and Bobby King under the Bellator MMA banner. At 36 years old, the Hawaiian has a chance to make a strong impression and potentially gain entry into the next PFL season.

Espinoza enters the matchup in the prospect position, though at 30 years old, time is of the essence for “The Prodigy.” Thus far, the Zen Jiu-Jitsu product has displayed determined wrestling with inconsistent striking, as his attacks on the feet have been primarily a means to get the fight to the ground. The rear-naked choke has been a favorite technique of his, with four career wins coming by way of that maneuver. Both lightweights have been plagued by ineffective striking at times, so this fight may come down to who is able to implement the more well-rounded gameplan. Espinoza is hittable, but his dogged determination on takedowns can take its toll on opponents. At this point, it is best to bet on the up-and-coming fighter. Espinoza wins a closely contested decision.

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