Former Bellator MMA lightweight champ Patricky Pitbull made his PFL debut on Friday against league mainstay and 2023 finalist Clay Collard at PFL 2 in Las Vegas.
On paper, the 155lb fight was a fan-friendly banger with the potential for considerably explosive fireworks.
What played out in the cage was exactly as advertised. A scorcher.
It was Patricky Pitbull firing first in what turned out to be an action-packed affair, at least in terms of anything significant. He launched a right hand, while Collard attacked with leg kicks. Another right from the former Bellator champ would come under 90 seconds in, but it was Collard cutting angles and walking the Brazilian down while mixing in his calf kicks with a jab.
Pitbull, not dissuaded, went on the attack, and near the three minute mark charged forward, eventually landing a knockdown! Collard would survive, and later contend with a double-leg attempt from Pitbull.
As the opening frame wound down, Pitbull was showing a bit of damage, but got scrappy, opening open with his combos. Collard continued to march forward, and they finished the round trading.
In the second, it was Clay unloading early, forcing Pitbull to cover up and roll with a punches in the opening minute. Moments later, Collard had the Brazilian champ pinned against the fence under fire again, unleashing fury, lefts and rights landing while mixing in body shots. Pitbull was simply not responding, not returning fire, and after taking a close look, the ref clearly did not like what he saw. He waved things off, with Pitbull still on his feet.
That’s five points for Clay Collard, and one of the biggest wins of his career to date, putting away a former Bellator champ. A solid start to his 2024 campaign, after coming up short opposite two-time champ Olivier Aubin-Mercier last year.
Official Result: Clay Collard def. Patricky Pitbull by TKO, Round 2, 1:32
