On June 21, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) will be coming to the Huntsman Center for their first ever event in Utah. Cassius Clay Collard, who is an Emery High School alumni, will be headlining the event against Mads Burnell of Denmark. Burnell is coming off of a loss, and his career record is at 18-6-0.
“Throughout my entire career, I’ve eagerly awaited the chance to return home and fight in front of my fellow Utahns! Utah is where my fighting journey began, and it’s my home. I’m determined to put on a show for everyone,” said Collard.
Collard’s last fight was against Brazilian, Patricky Pitbull, whose career record is at 25-13-0. Collard would earn the Technical Knockout (TKO) due to referee stoppage in the second round, earning him five points in the tournament. The tournament does a point-based system which will be crucial, as the playoffs near. Knockouts and submissions earn the fighters more points than a decision, so each fight has a lot riding on it.
Collard is sitting in a three-way tie for first in the Lightweight division. Only the top four fighters will advance to the playoffs out of the group of 10 fighters. The 155-weight class consists of athletes from six different countries whose dream is to win the PFL title and million-dollar reward.
With the fight only weeks away, Collard has been making his way around the city, promoting the upcoming fight. He was on Good Things Utah, when being asked about his excitement to be fighting in front of his friends and family, Collard replied, “I’m excited to pick their faces out in the crowd, give em’ a thumbs up on the way to the ring. It’s very exciting to be home in front of my family and friends, fighting.”
He also joined ESPN 700 and Talkin’ Sports with Dave Fox in his busy media filled day. Collard finished out his weekend at the Real Salt Lake, American First Field. He had a jersey swap with one of the players and was enjoying family night, with his wife and kids at the stadium.
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- Photos Courtesy of Cassius Clay MMA
