Preview: PFL 3 ‘Aubin-Mercier vs. Burgos’

Heavyweights

Denis Goltsov (29-7, 7-2 PFL) vs. Patrick Brady (5-0, 0-0 PFL)

ODDS: Goltsov (-625), Brady (+450)

Goltsov and Brady had opponents fall out at PFL 2, but being booked again so quickly means both heavyweights should receive two regular-season bouts, which dramatically increases their playoff chances. That is especially crucial for Goltsov, who might have made it to the 2022 PFL World Championships were it not for visa issues that forced him out of the postseason. As it stands, the former Absolute Championship Berkut titleholder is one of the most experienced heavyweights in this year’s field and should be one of the favorites if all goes as planned. The 32-year-old Russian works well behind a solid jab and decent array of kicks on the feet, but he does his best when he can close the distance against his opponents. From there, Goltsov will either force the clinch or shove his foe into the fence while looking to execute trip takedowns and throws. Goltsov is heavy on top, where he will look to advance position and threaten with chokes, though sometimes he is not as offensively active as one might like.

The 39-year-old Brady made his professional debut a little less than two years ago. History shows that age does not matter as much at heavyweight, but Brady, a former Art of War titleholder, will be facing a significant step up in competition from previous foes. With a quick turnaround and little time to prepare for a new opponent, Goltsov might play it safe, but he should prevail with a clear-cut decision victory at the very least.

Continue Reading » Miranda vs. Zawada