Main Event Delivers Knockout Potential
France’s own Cedric Doumbe is back in action, facing off against gritty American Derek Anderson in the welterweight main event. Doumbe’s last fight ended in controversy with a toe injury stoppage, leaving fans hungry for redemption. Anderson, a seasoned Bellator veteran, is known for his durability and pressure-heavy style. The clash is set to headline with fireworks, as both fighters are hunting for statements.
Doumbe’s Pressure to Perform
The hype around Doumbe isn’t just marketing—his kickboxing pedigree and sharp MMA transition have made him one of the most-watched fighters in Europe. But the September 30, 2023 bout left a bitter aftertaste. Doumbe now has a golden opportunity to quiet doubters and put a clean stamp on his PFL journey. Expect him to go hard from the bell.
Anderson’s Grit and Wild Card Factor
Anderson hasn’t had a flawless run, but he’s tough, unpredictable, and comfortable in deep waters. His unorthodox approach could disrupt Doumbe’s timing, especially if he survives the early storm and drags the fight into later rounds.
Featherweight Semifinals Bring Heat
The 145-lb tournament semis are locked, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Four hungry fighters will lay it all out for a shot at gold.
| Matchup | Record | Fighter Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nathan Kelly vs Dimitry Solimeis | Kelly (9-2), Solimeis (5-2) | Kelly’s technical control meets Solimeis’ raw athleticism. Ireland vs France always hits different. |
| Frans Mlambo vs Moktar Benkaci | Mlambo (13-6), Benkaci (21-8) | Mlambo’s slick movement and jab game go up against Benkaci’s grind-and-sub style. |
Women’s Flyweight Bracket Fires Up
The tournament structure in the women’s flyweight division also takes center stage. Four fighters will scrap for a spot in the finals.
Cornolle Eyes the Crown
France’s own Manon Cornolle steps in with a spotless record. Her composure under pressure and clean striking have kept her unbeaten, but she faces a new level of resistance now.
Surprise Packages in the Mix
Don’t count out Lizzy Gevers or Griet Eeckhout. Both women have shown the grit and cardio to make late-fight surges. With tournament pressure cooking, upsets are on the table.
Featured Showcase Bouts Bring Variety
Beyond the brackets, PFL Europe has stacked the card with showcase fights that bring both local flair and international intrigue.
returns in middleweight action, aiming to rebound from a tight decision loss. He faces , who comes with a wrestling-heavy approach. , the former Muay Thai phenom, is set for his second MMA outing. He’ll clash with , a striker with a point to prove after a string of decision setbacks. steps in to face in a catchweight attraction. Expect pace, transitions, and scrambles all day.
Rising Prospects to Watch
This card isn’t just about stars—it’s a launchpad for emerging talent. Fighters like
Abdoul Tounkara’s Grappling Threat
A judo-based style, pressure from top, and sneaky submissions—Tounkara has the blueprint to dominate on the ground. If his gas tank holds, he’s a serious threat.
George Staines and the Volume Game
Staines isn’t flashy, but he overwhelms opponents with clean combinations and relentless pace. He’s racked up wins by simply outworking everyone in front of him.
Event Logistics and Live Atmosphere
Taking place at the Zenith Nantes Metropole, the venue offers an intimate but high-energy vibe. With a seating capacity hovering around 9,000, every strike, takedown, and cheer will reverberate. This isn’t a sterile arena—this is a combat cauldron, French style.
Broadcast and Streaming Details
As of September 5, 2025, official broadcast platforms have yet to be confirmed. Historically, PFL events have aired on DAZN in Europe and ESPN+ in the U.S. Fans should monitor PFL’s main channels for final confirmation.
Card Lineup Summary
| Division | Fighters |
|---|---|
| Welterweight Main Event | Cedric Doumbe vs Derek Anderson |
| Featherweight Semifinals | Nathan Kelly vs Dimitry Solimeis Frans Mlambo vs Moktar Benkaci |
| Women’s Flyweight Semifinals | Manon Cornolle vs Lizzy Gevers Griet Eeckhout vs TBC |
| Middleweight Feature | Anthony Salamone vs Mihail Cotruta |
| Showcase Bouts | Yassine Boughanem vs Jack Meleady Alex Chizov vs Bokang Masunyane |
| Prospect Spotlight | Abdoul Tounkara, George Staines |
Ticket Demand and Local Hype
As of now, ticket demand is strong, especially with Doumbe headlining on home soil. Local media buzz is building, and regional gyms are turning out in support. If you’re planning to attend live, move fast—this one’s tracking toward a sellout.
