Reigning PFL champion Brendan Loughnane had a strong start to his 2023 quest, besting Marlon Moraes at PFL 1.
The event aired live on ESPN Networks from Las Vegas.
Loughnane, who rolled through the 2022 field to claim the title, finished off Moraes in the second round. He secured five points towards advancing in the featherweight division.
In the co-main event, reigning light heavyweight champion Robert Wilkinson picked up a win over former UFC title contender Thiago Santos. Wilkinson earned three points for the decision victory.
“The kickoff to the 2023 PFL Regular Season delivered thrilling action from our Featherweight and Light Heavyweight divisions in Las Vegas,” said Ray Sefo, President of Fighter Operations at PFL. “The unique PFL season format makes each fight a must win and must watch, we can’t wait to see what’s in store next Friday when our Women’s Featherweights and Heavyweights take to the PFL SmartCage.”
Other featherweight winners were Bubba Jenkins, Movlid Khaybulaev, Alejandro Flores and Gabriel Braga. Joshua Silveria, Ty Flores, Marthin Hamlet and Will Fleury joined Wilkinson as 205-pound winners.
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