The PFL Challenger Series is all about providing an opportunity.
On Friday night, it was Alexei Pergande who took advantage of that moment.
Pergande earned a victory in his professional debut during the event. The card aired live on fuboTV from Universal Studios in Orlando.
All of the bouts featured amateur fighters. Pergande also claimed a PFL contract, becoming the eighth to do so on the show.
Pergande came out victorious against Joe Hamm via 2nd round submission (arm triangle choke), in the first of two Lightweight showdowns. Pergande, who is only 20 years old, is coached by his father who was an amateur boxer in Ukraine before immigrating to the U.S. He entered the night with a 4-0 amateur record with all four wins coming by way of finish.
“The seventh event of the PFL Challenger Series brought an exciting night of action from all ten fighters,” said Ray Sefo, President of Fighter Operations. “Each week, fighters have welcomed the challenge and put it all on the line for a chance to earn a life-changing PFL contract. Congratulations to Alexei for earning your contract.”
In the evening’s main event, Andrija Stankovic and Louis Brewington took to SmartCage in a Welterweight affair. Stankovic, who has an extensive background in kickboxing, was declared victorious by unanimous decision in his MMA debut.
“The Professional Fighters League Challenger Series has provided the opportunity for some of the top athletes to make their professional MMA debuts,” said Peter Murray, PFL CEO. “Tonight’s action saw fighters who were determined to make a name for themselves, and it’s my honor to welcome Alexei Pergande to the PFL.”
OFFICIAL 2022 PFL CHALLENGER SERIES WEEK 7 RESULTS
fuboTV Card
Welterweight: Andrija Stankovic def. Louis Brewington by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Lightweight: Christian Turner def. Chayanne Serrano by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Lightweight: Alexei Pergande def. Joe Hamm by 2nd round submission (4:42)
Heavyweight: Rakim Talley def. Santino Zurita by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Featherweight: Daeri Alderman def. Jaylon McDaniel by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)