Preview: PFL 4 ‘Collard vs. Martinez’

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Lightweights

Jeremy Stephens (28-20, 0-1 PFL) vs. Myles Price (11-8, 0-1 PFL)

Stephens’ winless streak extended to seven at PFL 1, but his stock did not fall much after losing to Clay Collard via unanimous decision in a back-and-forth slugfest. “Lil Heathen” rocked Collard with several heavy right hands but ultimately could not match his opponent’s superior volume. Now, the onus is on Stephens to deliver in a big way in his sophomore PFL outing or risk missing the playoffs entirely. Such has been the trend for some of the high-profile PFL signings during their first time through the season format. Price returned to action for the first time in three years with predictable results, as he was submitted by Anthony Pettis in the opening round of their lightweight bout. Price has been a journeyman on the European regional scene with sporadic activity and middling success, so it would appear to be a prime opportunity for Stephens to rocket up the standings with a big finish. Price does have some tools that could frustrate his veteran opponent, including rangy striking with a mix of punches and kicks and an active ground game, but the problem is he doesn’t do anything exceptionally well in comparison to what Stephens has seen over a lengthy career at the highest level of competition. Price will have to either confound Stephens with movement and varied striking or force the UFC veteran to wrestle. Though Price does have a reach advantage, Stephens should be able to wade forward, find his preferred range and do damage. The taller Price also provides an inviting target for heavy leg kicks—something Stephens has used well at times. Riding the momentum of a memorable bout against Collard, expect Stephens to secure a much-needed KO/TKO finish.


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Collard vs. Martinez
Carlos Jr. vs. Souto
Manfio vs. Aubin-Mercier
Stephens vs. Price
The Prelims