https://www.mmanews.com/news/thiago-santos-speaks-pfl-1-loss
Former UFC title challenger Thiago Santos’ PFL debut didn’t go according to plan against Rob Wilkinson.
Santos lost to Wilkinson via unanimous decision at PFL 1 last weekend. He signed with the PFL following a long tenure in the UFC but was looking to get back on track after three straight defeats.
Wilkinson’s footwork and technical striking proved too much for Santos to handle at PFL 1. Santos had some promising moments inside the PFL SmartCage, but Wilkinson was by far the busier fighter.
Santos’ latest setback left some questioning whether or not he could still cause problems for some of the top light heavyweights in the world. Despite the skepticism, Santos isn’t backing down from his pursuit of a PFL title and $1 million.
Thiago Santos Remains Confident Despite PFL Debut Loss
In a recent tweet, Santos addressed his PFL debut loss to Wilkinson.
At the end of the day, we have two options, give up or continue," Santos wrote. “And how can I give up on a blessing that God grants me, even with all my difficulties and limitations I’m still here, doing and living what I love. Say what you want to say but we’re still in the game.”
Santos was one of the PFL’s biggest signings during the offseason. Like Aspen Ladd and Marlon Moraes at featherweight, Santos was looking to make a statement and potentially become the frontrunner for the 205lb belt.
Santos could potentially become the latest in a series of UFC movers to the PFL who haven’t panned out. The league signed Anthony Pettis beginning with the 2021 regular season, but he has lost four of his five fights with the promotion.
At 39 years old, Santos’ physical prime is arguably behind him, but he’ll look to clinch a spot in the PFL Playoffs in his next outing.
PFL is a sad graveyard of old UFC fighters. PFL signed Moraes and Santos who had a recent MMA record of 1-10.
He’s done. Can’t coast off the Jones fight forever