UNCASVILLE, Conn. – It’s not typically an upset win in a nationally televised foremost occasion is bittersweet, however that’s what it seemingly felt like for Linton Vassell this previous Thursday.
Vassell (24-9) outworked Valentin Moldavsky (13-4) within the PFL’s heavyweight headliner for a call win and three factors. However as a result of he misplaced his first battle of the common season, Vassell fell in need of the four-man playoffs – the place $1 million is up for grabs.
However Vassell stated he’ll keep prepared – simply in case one of many fighters who did make the postseason reduce winds up out come August. Stranger issues have occurred, notably at heavyweight, is his idea.
And the icing on the cake was his win over Moldavsky was the rubber match of their trilogy, and he owns a pair of wins.
“Everyone knows what occurs. Heavyweights are pulling out left, proper and heart, aren’t they?” Vassell advised MMA Junkie and different reporters after the battle at Mohegan Solar Enviornment. “I’m gutted that I’m not by way of (to the playoffs), however I’m extra blissful that I bought the win. I completed the trilogy, so we’ll see what occurs within the subsequent couple of weeks, I suppose.
“I’m going to take a seat again, clearly get pleasure from my win for slightly bit. I’ll return to coaching. I’ve bought some associates which are combating. Muhammad Usman is combating quickly, so I’ll return and assist him. I’ve bought Emiliano Sordio combating as properly. So I assist my teammates out and perhaps get a name from PFL. , we’ll see. Possibly get a superfight or one thing. However I’ll return and lick my wounds for a bit after which return to coaching.”
Vassell thinks if he can’t discover his manner into the playoffs by way of the again door in a fluke, the sort of “superfight” he’s pondering might be in opposition to Bellator heavyweight champ Ryan Bader, who beat Vassell in a 2017 title battle – however at gentle heavyweight.
“If I’m not within the event, then perhaps Ryan comes over to PFL – might do a superfight or one thing like that,” Vassell stated.
Take a look at Vassell’s full post-fight interview within the video above.
For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for PFL 2024, Week 4.
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