PFL 1 tips: Defending champion Rob Wilkinson looks to cut down former UFC contender Thiago Santos

Liam HamptonLiam Hampton31 March 2023
Rob Wilkinson steps on the scale for the PFL

Rob Wilkinson steps on the scale for the PFL

Rob Wilkinson was dominant in his debut PFL campaign, defeating every opponent he faced by finish to claim the $1million prize. Razor now takes on UFC veteran Thiago Santos in the PFL 1 co main event.

Wilkinson's UFC career was an unlucky one. After a short notice loss Siyar Bahadurzada in his UFC debut he then welcomed Israel Adesanya for his debut. Following a loss in that fight, Wilkinson was sent back to the regional scene somewhat hard done by. 

But you can't keep a good man down and Wilkinson rebounded with two first round wins sandwiched between bouts in boxing and kickboxing across Australia. This brought him to the attention of the PFL who signed him to compete in their light-heavyweight division.

From then on Wilkinson looked deadly, stopping Bruce Souto and Viktor Pesta in the regular season, before post-season stoppages of Delan Monte and Omari Akhmedov saw him walk away with the $1million prize.

His next opponent is Thiago Santos, who after mixed results fighting below his natural weight class, finally found his form at light-heavyweight becoming one of the most feared finishers in the UFC during his time at 205lbs.

A sledgehammer right hand that have seen many who face it crumble and an exotic kicking game makes Santos one of the most interesting competitors in this year's season.
A struggle with injuries led to his eventual downfall in the UFC, but a fit and healthy Thiago Santos is a danger to anyone who steps into the cage with him.
Wilkinson will be looking to extend his PFL winning streak to five whilst Santos will look to make a statement by knocking off last seasons champion, it promises to be an exciting battle for as long as it lasts.

Key Stats

Wilkinson has never left the second round in his PFL career.
Santos has lost his last two fights but never lost three in a row in his career.

Suggested Bets

Rob Wilkinson to win the fight.
The fight not to go the distance.

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