Thad Jean earned a future PFL contract during the first installment of the PFL Challenger Series.
The event returned recently for a second season, with Itso Babulaidze, Zach Juusola, and Kendly St. Louis Claim also earning wins.
In the evening’s main event, Brazilian Lucas Barbosa squared off with Itso Babulaidze of Georgia. In a tightly-contested three-round affair, it was Babulaidze who emerged victorious, banking on his striking and takedown defense to get the unanimous decision result, 30-27, 29-28, 29-28.
“Tonight we saw world class welterweight action as The 2023 PFL Challenger Series kicked off,” said Ray Sefo, President of Fighter Operations of PFL. “Congratulations to Thad Jean, welcome to the PFL and the beginning of your $1 million dream.”
The next event features Amanda Leve vs. Naranjargal Tsend-Ayush along with three more women’s featherweight fights.
PFL Challenger Series Results
Itso Babulaidze def. Lucas Barboza via unanimous decision
Thad Jean def. Eric Alequin via unanimous decision
Zach Juusola def. Jozef Wittner via unanimous decision
Kendly St. Louis def. Nick Alley via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:17 of Round 2