Preview: PFL 5 ‘Cappelozza vs. Scheffel’

Heavyweights

Renan Ferreira (9-2, 3-0, 1 NC PFL) vs. Klidson Abreu (16-5, 1-1 PFL)

Ferreira did little to dispel the notion that he is one of the most intriguing heavyweight contenders at PFL 2, where he scored the fastest knockout in the history of the division with a 25-second finish of Jamelle Jones. In his last two appearances, “Problema” has needed a grand total of 56 seconds to dispatch Jones and Stuart Austin. The 6-foot-8 Brazilian uses his reach to keep opponents at range while unleashing powerful straight punches and a versatile arsenal of kicks — even the finish of Jones appeared to be the makings of a front kick that turned into a glancing knee as his opponent closed the distance. While it hasn’t been an issue lately, Ferreira can fatigue if the quick finish doesn’t arrive. Wrestling-minded foes can run into trouble against him if they achieve top control, because his long limbs and active guard are a viable submission threat.

Abreu appeared to be out of his depth in a move to heavyweight following a 1-3 UFC stint at 205 pounds, as he was overwhelmed by ground-and-pound from Jones in his PFL debut last year. His sophomore outing was much more encouraging, however. In a unanimous decision win over the previously undefeated Adam Keresh, Abreu held his own on the feet against his unorthodox foe and more importantly, was able to have success landing takedowns and advancing to dominant positions on the canvas. Abreu is best known as a Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner with a willingness to brawl, but he has struggled when forced to dictate the action through his wrestling, which is why the effort against Keresh seemed to be a sign of improvement.

Expect Abreu to be more cautious regarding his forays into the clinch this time around. Not only will he be well aware of his opponent’s striking acumen, but a 10-inch reach deficit can be quite daunting to navigate. And if he can ground Ferreira, it may prove difficult keeping his rangy foe on the mat for any significant period of time. Perhaps Abreu can drag this one out and try to fatigue Ferreira, but the odds are not in his favor. Ferreira goes past the minute mark for the first time in three fights, but he still gets a KO/TKO finish at some point.

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Cappelozza vs. Scheffel
Pettis vs. Ray
Wade vs. Bochniak
Ferreira vs. Abreu