The Professional Fighters League is hosting its final Regular Season event for 2024 and it features featherweights and welterweights competing for their last chance at earning points and advancing to the 2024 PFL Payoffs. Topping the card this time is the 2022 featherweight champion Brendan Loughnane taking on Justin Gonzales.
Loughnane failed to make it to the playoffs in 2023 and is looking to make sure history doesn't repeat itself twice. He's currently at the top of the leaderboard with six points so he's in a good position to advance.
Gonzales on the other hand is at the bottom of the leaderboard with zero points so far. He desperately needs a quick finish if he hopes to have a chance to find himself in the top four and continue on.
Here's what each fighter needs to do in hopes of getting their hand raised on Friday night.
Brendan Loughnane's keys to victory
Stick to the game plan
Whatever Loughnane's been doing this season has been working. He needs to trust his coaches and the game plan and not deviate too far from what he does best.
Stay calm
He's going to want to get the quick finish because that's what he's known for, and if it happens, great. But he shouldn't get panicked or flustered if he needs to take it slow too. He can probably advance even with a decision so he should play it a bit safer and not risk getting caught like he did in 2023 versus Jesus Pinedo.
Have fun
Loughnane is one of the best guys on the roster and he's at his best when he has fun. The pressure should be low for this one and he should enjoy the moment.
Justin Gonzales' keys to victory
Be confident
Gonzales has the cards stacked against him. He's on a three-fight losing streak and he's fighting the toughest name in the division. But that's exactly what everyone thought about Jesus Pinedo and he beat Loughnane and moved on to win the whole season. If Gonzales can take confidence into the cage with
Take risks
He's going to have to finish Loughnane and finish him fast, so he can't play things safe or take his time. He has to take risks and lay it all out there
His fear of losing has to be less than his fear of not advancing or taking risks. Oftentimes fighters play it safe in hopes of winning on the scorecards. He can't go the cards or he will most definitely not advance. He's got to get his priorities in order. Does he want a win? Or does he want a win and advance?