Preview: PFL 9 2024 | Featherweight, Welterweight Playoffs

Welterweight Semifinal

Shamil Musaev (16-0-1, 2-0 PFL) vs. Murad Ramazanov (12-1, 1-1 PFL)

No. 1 welterweight seed Musaev faces a familiar foe in the first round of the tournament playoffs. Musaev already handed Ramazanov his first career loss when he TKO’d him in the second round of their fight back in June. The “Silent Assassin” started the fight slowly, allowing Ramazanov to establish his calf kicks early. Ramazanov was determined to work his way inside and take Musaev down—and for good reason. With one wicked left hook in the second, Musaev flattened Ramazanov on his back before putting him away with a flurry of shots. Musaev has finished his last three opponents, and his 69% knockout rate makes him one of the most dangerous welterweights in the field. Despite his knockout loss to Musaev, Ramazanov still remains a legitimate threat to the $1 million prize if he can avoid his opponent’s fight-ending power. Ramzanov found success employing his wrestling and could neutralize Masaev’s power if he focuses on shooting for takedowns. Ramazanov has less experience and doesn’t carry dynamite in his hands like Musaev, but he does have the gas tank needed to outwork him. This fight is intriguing because the two fighters are already familiar with each other. While the first fight seemed definitive, Ramazanov is out to prove that he was simply caught by a lucky punch. Musaev can’t let Ramazanov build confidence early. He has to stuff his wrestling and force him to face the power that ended his night two months ago. If Ramazanov can avoid eating a big shot, his activity and well-rounded approach could be enough to grind out a decision, but he knows better than most that avoiding Musaev’s right hand is easier said than done.

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Loughnane vs. Kamaka
Umalatov vs. Gracie
Braga vs. Khizriev
Musaev vs. Ramazanov
The Prelims