PFL 2: Higo vs. Alves Preview

PFL 2: Higo vs. Alves Preview

April 11, 2025|
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The Professional Fighters League returns with PFL 2: Higo vs. Alves, featuring the opening round of the Bantamweight and Women’s Flyweight tournaments. With a spot in the semi-finals on the line, fighters are looking to make a statement early in the season.

Main Event: Leandro Higo vs. Marcirley Alves (Bantamweight Quarterfinal)

Originally scheduled to face Josh Rettinghouse, Leandro Higo (23-6) now meets Marcirley Alves (12-4) in the new main event. Higo, a former Bellator title challenger, has a depth of high-level experience and a dangerous submission game. Alves, stepping in on short notice as the Bantamweight alternative, is Brazilian prospect riding who's fought in Bellator and LFA. Higo’s experience and composure under pressure make him the favorite, but Alves will look to play spoiler and earn himself a spot in the semi-finals.

Co-Main Event: Liz Carmouche vs. Ilara Joanne (Women’s Flyweight Quarterfinal)

Former Bellator Women’s Flyweight Champion Liz Carmouche (22-8) makes her return to the PFL after a decision loss to Taila Santos, against Brazilian striker Ilara Joanne (12-9). Carmouche was a long reinging Champion in Bellator, and is known for her gritty wrestling style. She faces Joanne, who's comng off a victory over Shanna Young in the PFL Playoffs.

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Francesco Nuzzi vs. Mando Gutierrez (Bantamweight Quarterfinal)

In a potential fight of the night contender, Italian standout Francesco Nuzzi (10-1) takes on Contender Series alum Mando Gutierrez (10-3) in a Bantamweight quarterfinal. Nuzzi enters the PFL with a 9-fight win streak and also holds a win over UFC Fighter Benardo Sopaj. Gutierrez, known for his grappling, will aim to drag the fight into deeper waters and test Nuzzi’s takedown defense. With both men looking to make a splash in their PFL debuts, this has all-action written all over it.

Justin Wetzell vs. Kasum Kasumov (Bantamweight Quarterfinal)

In the opening bout of the main card, rising prospect Justin Wetzell (10-2) meets Dagestani wrestler Kasum Kasumov (16-1) in another compelling Bantamweight quarterfinal. Wetzell’s striking and movement could pose problems early, but Kasumov’s smothering top game and control may dictate the pace. Kasumov’s only career loss came by decision, and he's eager to prove he’s the man to beat in the bracket. This bout will be a crucial litmus test for both fighters’ paths to the finals.

PFL 2 takes place tonight, April 11, at Universal Studios Florida in Orlando. The main card airs live on ESPN2 and ESPN+ at 11 p.m. ET.