The Professional Fighters League called the beloved D.C. venue The Anthem home Friday for its third and final round of semi-final playoffs.
The PFL, founded in 2017, is a mixed martial arts organization that unlike its competitors, holds a sports-season format. On Friday, fighters competed for a place in the finals to go on to fight for a $1 million prize and the championship for their respective weight class.
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The night included matches for weight classes spanning from featherweight — 145 lbs — to heavyweight — 206 to 265 lbs — with fighters from near and far, like Baltimore native Jesse Stirn to Magomed Umalatov from Russia. There were a total of nine fights, with two ending in a technical knockout, three by split decision and four unanimous decisions.
PFL heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou also made a promotional appearance for his upcoming defense against Renan Ferreira in October.
The PFL brought a competitive fight card to D.C. and was a strong showing for fight fans who rarely get the in-person experience.
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