Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Location: Universal Studios, Orlando, Florida
Event: PFL 2025 World Tournament: First Round 1
Division: Welterweight
The Matchup:
The opening round of the PFL 2025 Welterweight World Tournament features a compelling clash between ranked contenders as Jason “The Ass-Kicking Machine” Jackson takes on veteran Andrey “Spartan” Koreshkov. This fight pits a fighter seemingly hitting his prime against a former champion looking to make another run at glory under the bright lights of the PFL.
Jason Jackson:
- Record: 18-5 (as per search results)
- Sherdog Rank: #12 Welterweight (as per Fight Matrix)
- Betting Odds: -235 Favorite
- Notes: Jackson enters this PFL tournament bout as the clear betting favorite. His nickname, “The Ass-Kicking Machine,” speaks to his effective style. Ranked #12 in the division according to Fight Matrix, he holds a significant ranking advantage over Koreshkov. His inclusion in the PFL tournament signifies his status as a top welterweight.
Andrey Koreshkov:
- Record: 28-5 (as per search results)
- Sherdog Rank: #26 Welterweight (as per Fight Matrix)
- Betting Odds: +180 Underdog
- Notes: “Spartan” Koreshkov is a highly experienced and dangerous fighter, boasting significantly more professional fights than Jackson. Despite his #26 ranking placing him below Jackson, Koreshkov is a former Bellator Welterweight Champion and possesses proven finishing power and durability. As the +180 underdog, he presents potential value for bettors banking on his veteran savvy.
Analysis & Prediction:
This fight carries significant weight as part of the PFL’s high-stakes tournament format, where every win is crucial. Jackson comes in as the favorite (-235), reflecting his higher current ranking and likely recent form (Result 8 mentions a win in June 2024 against a highly ranked opponent). He’ll look to use his momentum and well-rounded skills to navigate the dangerous veteran across the cage.
Koreshkov (+180), however, cannot be underestimated. With 33 professional fights, he’s seen almost everything inside the cage. His path to victory likely involves leveraging his experience, potentially catching Jackson with his signature power strikes, or grinding out a tough win.
While Koreshkov’s experience makes him a live underdog, Jackson’s current ranking and status as the betting favorite suggest he’s perceived to have the edge in skills or athleticism at this stage of their respective careers. The odds indicate roughly a 70% implied probability for Jackson to win. Koreshkov’s experience could make it a competitive fight, but Jackson’s recent success against top competition gives him the edge.
Prediction: Jason Jackson to win. While Koreshkov is always dangerous, Jackson’s current form and ranking advantage should see him through, likely via decision, though a late TKO isn’t out of the question.
Sources:
Jason “The Ass-Kicking Machine” Jackson MMA Stats, Pictures …
Andrey Koreshkov v Jason Jackson Betting Odds | PokerStars Sports
Andrey “Spartan” Koreshkov MMA Stats, Pictures, News, Videos …
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