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PFL 9: 2023 Playoffs Betting Preview: Carlos Leal vs. Sadibou Sy

August 23, 2023



Excellent betting opportunities await for PFL, especially on the main card. One battle that you cannot miss is the welterweight semifinal showdown that will feature Carlos Leal and Sadibou Sy in an explosive matchup.


  • Date: August 23, 2023

  • Location: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

  • Main Card: ESPN/ESPN+ at 9:00 PM ET

  • Prelims: ESPN+ at 6:30 PM ET

Carlos Leal Betting Preview

Leal is working on improving his current two-fight win streak with another one here. His most recent win was a second round knockout against Dilano Taylor back in June of this year.

Looking at his 19 wins so far, eight of them are by knockout, two are submissions, seven are decisions, and the other two have come by other. Nine of his victories have resulted in a first round finish and three of his four losses have come by decision.

“The Lion” has looked good in a variety of MMA matchups across various leagues. These include going 5-1 in the PFL, 2-0 in Legacy Fighting Alliance, and 1-0 in Bellator.

Leal has also earned the 57th best welterweight fighter ranking in the world. Now is the time to see if he can make this improve with another quality win.

Sadibou Sy Betting Preview

Sy has won his last six fights and is aiming to capture another. His recent victory was a third round spinning wheel kick knockout against Shane Mitchell back in June earlier this year.

He has 15 victories under his belt, eight by knockout and seven by decision. Five of those wins have resulted in a first round finish and three of his six losses have been by decision.

“The Swedish Denzel Washington” has also bounced around various fighting organizations over the years. He has gone 9-4-2-1 in the PFL, 3-0 in Superior Challenge, and 2-1 in the International Rinf Fight Arena.

Sy is also considered to be the 48th best welterweight fighter in the world. This would be huge if he could take care of business to improve his rank.

Game Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

The following moneyline from MyBookie is revealing that Sadibou Sy is slightly favored to win the fight. As both fighters stack up well on paper, this presents a close challenge and an entertaining battle on the main card.


  • Carlos Leal: +133

  • Sadibou Sy: -153

  • *odds are subject to changes

Both fighters bring a lot to the table in terms of experience and quality fighting styles to tip the fight in their favor. This will likely come down to decision since they both love to strike and have plenty of long distance battles. Overall, Sy has a slightly more appealing resume and should be able to land the decision victory.

Final Pick: Take Sadibou Sy to Win at -153

 Written By: David White