Lineups set for first two PFL Challenger Series events; debut card features Josh Silveira vs. Mohamed Juma
Lineups have been revealed for the first two PFL Challenger Series events, which kick off in February.
As MMA Junkie previously reported, the eight-week series of prospects-based events all air on Fubo Sports Network from Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla. The debut event takes place on Feb. 18 and features eight light-heavyweight prospects aiming for a PFL contract, while the Feb. 25 event sees eight welterweights looking for the same honor.
The featured matchups, according to the promotion:
On February 18 the light heavyweight card will be headlined by LFA double-champion Josh Silveira (7-0) will face off with South Sudanese brawler Mohamed Juma (8-2) in what is expected to be an action-packed affair. Germany’s Alexander Poppeck (12-3) will matchup with American Taylor Johnson (7-3) in a battle of finishers.
One week later, February 25, Jordan’s Jarrah Al-Silawi (16-3) will bring his talents to North America for the first time when he meets American striker Michael Lilly (7-6). Dilano Taylor (7-1) and Mark Martin (7-1), both American wrestlers will duel in a match of top 170-pound prospects.
“It has been a great experience for myself and our team as we went in search of the best fighters from all over the world,” PFL president Ray Sefo stated. “We are proud of the roster of elite fighters that will be on display starting Feb. 18, when our light heavyweights step into the cage. I am very excited to see these amazing athletes square off for this life-changing opportunity. And then we’re going to do it all over again, one week later, with the welterweights.”
The complete lineups for the first two events include:
PFL Challenger Series 1, Feb. 18
- Josh Silveira vs. Mohamed Juma
- Alexander Poppeck vs. Taylor Johnson
- Joao Paulo Fagundes vs. Bruce Souto
- Simeon Powell vs. Karl Williams
PFL Challenger Series 2, Feb. 25
- Jarrah Al Silawi vs. Michael Lilly
- Dilano Taylor vs. Mark Martin
- Carlos Leal vs. Socrates Pierre
- Lucas Barbosa vs. Troy Green
