The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is bringing back its middleweight division for the first time since 2018 with an eight-man tournament that kicks off on April 18, 2025. The announcement included points highlighting a major shift for the organization, from its usual format of a regular-season-based competition to a single-elimination grand prix. The tournament shall witness some of the acclaimed title holders from the previously organized divisions under PFL.
Former PFL light Heavyweight Champion Impa Kasanganay and PFL Welterweight Champion Sadibou Sy to compete in the PFL Middleweight World Tournament 2025
Among the top names competing in the middleweight bracket is 2023 PFL light heavyweight champion Impa Kasanganay, who is dropping down to 185 pounds after winning last year’s tournament at 205 pounds. Kasanganay, who holds a professional record of 18-5, is joined by former PFL welterweight champion Sadibou Sy (17-8-2, 1 NC), who previously claimed the 2022 title at 170 pounds. Both fighters will be seeking another major tournament victory and a $500,000 prize, which is the new championship reward under PFL’s updated structure.
The middleweight field also includes several accomplished competitors from other promotions. Fabian Edwards (13-4), a two-time Bellator title challenger and brother of UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards, is one of the most high-profile additions to the tournament. 2023 PFL light heavyweight finalist Josh Silveira (13-4) is also in the mix, looking to make another deep run after coming up short in last year’s 205-pound tournament final.
Other noted fighters who will be joining the line-up are - Bellator veterans Aaron Jeffery (15-5), Dalton Rosta (9-1), and Mike Shipman (17-4), as well as recent PFL competitor Murad Ramazanov (12-2). The tournament line-up showcases a mix of former champions, rising prospects, and experienced veterans, making it one of the most competitive divisions in the league.
The PFL is scheduled to begin on the 3rd of April 2025, with events scheduled at Universal Studios Florida on the 3rd, 11th, and 18th of April, bringing an end to the tournament on the 1st of May. The tournament will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN+.
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Michael Chandler Moves Forward Amid Conor McGregor Uncertainty, Prepares for UFC 314 Showdown with Paddy PimblettThis is the beginning of a much broader PFL shift towards a more compact tournament format, replacing the previous regular-season model. With the return of the middleweight division, PFL aims to add more depth to its growing roster while delivering high-stakes matchups throughout 2025.
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