Logan Storley Looks to ‘Storm’ Into PFL Debut

Fresh off the best knockout of his career, Logan Storley believed he was on the cusp of a career-defining opportunity. Having already climbed to the top of Bellator MMA’s welterweight standings, the former No. 1 contender grew frustrated waiting for his next fight. With his mind on staying prepared, Storley worked in the gym while his career was in limbo.

“It was a tough position for all fighters involved with Bellator,” Storley told Sherdog.com. “We really didn’t know what was going to happen with us … but that’s the way this sport works sometimes. Sometimes you have to wait, but now that I’m in this tournament it’s about to get busy.”

His patience has led him to Professional Fighters League, where the 31-year-old will look to storm his way to the $1 million grand prize. Having already beaten fellow contenders Neiman Gracie and Brennan Ward, Storley (15-2) enters the field as a potential favorite, but he’ll be tested early by a new foe.

Shamil Musaev hasn’t made a ton of noise throughout his run on the European circuit, but the “Silent Assassin” is dangerous and undefeated (14-0-1). Storley hopes to be the first to stop Musaev when they throw down at PFL 3: 2024 Regular Season on April 19 at Wintrust Center in Chicago (tune into ESPN and ESPN+ at 9:30 p.m. ET for the main card.)

Musaev is heavy-handed and aggressive. He’s an inch taller than Storley and can mix up his striking with spinning attacks. After a successful run in Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki, the 30-year-old Moscow native built enough confidence to take a shot at one of the biggest stages in MMA. Storley respects Musaev’s skill set, but the former NCAA D1 wrestling All-American isn’t threatened by his experience.

“He’s good on the cage and at his wrestling but I don’t think he’s fought the competition that I have. And I know he’s never had anyone push the pace like I will,” Storley said. “For me, that’s the biggest thing is making him work and being constantly in his face.”

Storley’s gas tank will be the former Minnesota Golden Gopher’s best weapon in the season format. Outside of his second-round knockout of Ward, Storley’s gone five rounds in his last four fights. Pressure and consistency are his bread and butter and he doesn’t plan on changing. He isn’t oblivious to the PFL’s point system. Early finishes would obviously put him in a better position amongst the standing, but that’s not his main concern.

“I’m not going to change the way I fight and start chasing stuff, being out of position to chase a finish that isn’t there,” he said. This is the first round. The most important thing is to come out with the win and come out healthy. Obviously, you don’t want to leave it in the judges' hands, but I think the finish will come if I fight my fight.”