Jackson Secures Victory Over Koreshkov in PFL Tournament Kickoff
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) launched its 2025 World Tournament with an exhilarating start in Orlando, Florida. Jamaican fighter Jason Jackson delivered a remarkable performance, defeating Russian veteran Andrey Koreshkov in their welterweight clash.
Commanding Win for Jackson
Boasting a professional record of 19-5, Jackson demonstrated his expertise by submitting Koreshkov (28-6) with a rear-naked choke at 4:21 of the second round. His commanding execution was slightly marred by an accidental, illegal elbow to Koreshkov’s head. The referee, Keith Peterson, ruled the strike unintended. Following a brief pause, Jackson swiftly took advantage, bringing Koreshkov down and sealing the submission victory.
Reflecting on the incident, Jackson remarked, “It wasn’t intentional. I saw the target and when it landed, he kind of shifted his head. I felt bad, but hey, it’s a fight. Stuff happens.”
Advancing to the Semifinals
Jackson’s success moves him into the tournament semifinals set for June. PFL’s shift to a tournament format represents a break from their former seasonal and playoff structures, with finals across eight weight classes in August.
Jackson will next face undefeated talent Thad Jean (9-0), fresh off a first-round knockout of Mukhamed Berkhamov. The opposite side of the welterweight bracket features:
- Logan Storley (17-3) against Masayuki Kikuiri (11-2-1)
Standout Performances
In the featherweight category, Peruvian Jesus Pinedo (24-6-1) impressed by knocking out Adam Borics (19-3) to enter the semifinals, where he’ll challenge Gabriel Braga (16-2). Additionally, former PFL champion Movlid Khaybulaev (22-0-1) earned his place in the semifinals to meet South Korea’s Tae Kyu Kim, following Kim’s submission win over Ireland’s Nathan Kelly.
The World Tournament’s opening round will continue with three additional events at Universal Studios Florida, ensuring more thrills for MMA enthusiasts.
Jackson’s triumph not only progresses him in the tournament but also solidifies his status as a key contender within PFL’s reimagined competitive framework, promising an exciting season ahead.
