Preview: PFL 2025 World Tournament 7: Semifinals

Heavyweight Semifinals

Valentin Moldavsky (14-4, 2-1 PFL) vs. Alexander Romanov (19-3, 1-0 PFL): Romanov, a former UFC contender, shined in his PFL debut with a first-round submission over Tim Johnson. Romanov thrives on the ground, but the Moldavan also carries thunderous power in his fists. Romanov’s downfall, however, is his questionable gas tank. Moldavsky is a battle-tested heavyweight who will be a significant step up over Johnson. Moldavsky has never been submitted and possesses the wrestling acumen to give Romanov problems on the ground.

Heavyweight Semifinals

Oleg Popov (20-2) vs. Rodrigo Nascimento (12-3): Popov was submitted in the 2024 championship and looked lethargic in his quarterfinal win over Karl Williams. He’s still a dangerous fighter who can starch you with either hand, but after back-to-back lackluster performances, the Fedor Team product needs to make a statement. Nascimento is also coming off a split decision and a pair of performances he would like to have back. “Yogi Bear” is notoriously tricky to put away and sneaky good on the ground. Popov is likely to win, but Nascimento will make him work.

Fighters only get one shot! Watch the Semifinals of the PFL World Tournament LIVE Friday, June 27 at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN+

Light Heavyweights

Rafael Xavier (13-8, 0-0 PFL) vs. Karl Albrektsson (14-7, 0-1 PFL): The winner of this fight will be the light heavyweight championship alternate. Xavier was on the rise before suffering a split decision loss in September. The Brazilian is known for his striking and has nine knockouts on his ledger. Albrektsson was stopped brutally in his last two fights and has lost four of his previous five. He has been matched extremely tough throughout his career and has faced the likes of Jiri Prochazka, Phil Davis, Vadim Nemkov and several other world-class talents.

Lightweights

Biaggio Ali Walsh (2-0, 2-0 PFL) vs. Ronnie Gibbs (1-0, 0-0 PFL): Walsh makes his first appearance of 2025 after a successful debut a year ago. The PFL has had a watchful eye on the grandson of Muhammad Ali since 2022 and looks to develop him into a star. Gibbs began competing in MMA in 2015 and made his professional debut in March with a second-round TKO victory.


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Edwards vs. Silveira
Davis vs. Cauley
Pettis vs. Stots
Rosta vs. Jeffery
Carlos Jr. vs. Powell
The Prelims