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PFL 9: 2023 Playoffs Betting Preview: John Caldone vs. Nathaniel Grimard

August 23, 2023



PFL 9 boasts an impressive fight card with numerous thrilling matchups for those interested in betting. For the opening bout in the preliminary card, keep an eye on the featherweight clash between John Caldone and Nathaniel Grimard.


  • 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

John Caldone Betting Preview

Caldone is currently aiming to extend his three-fight winning streak. His most recent victory was a unanimous decision against Taylor Pierce back in May earlier this year.

He has put together a fighting resume that shows he has four wins that consist of one knockout, one submission, and four decisions. One win so far has resulted in a first round finish and his only loss has come by knockout.

“The Don” will be entering the octagon for the PFL for the first time in this battle. He has primarily fought for one fighting organization, which is Ring of Combat, and has been challenged by some decent competitors.

Caldone is currently ranked as the 333rd-best professional featherweight in the United States. This would be a great opportunity to increase his ranking and to advance in his career.

Nathaniel Grimard Betting Preview

Grimard is currently on a two-fight win streak as he approaches this event. This was a unanimous decision against Robert Wusstig back in May of this year.

His fighting resume shows that he has four wins that consist of one knockout and three decisions. He only has one win that has resulted in a first round finish and both of his losses have come by submission.

He will also be making his debut in the PFL after he had previously gone 4-2 under the New England Fight promotion. This also marks the first time he is stepping away from the NEF promotion.

Grimard is currently ranked as the 705th-best professional featherweight in the United States. Now would be a great time to win against a quality opponent, especially since he has battled against opponents with losing records (one of them defeat led Grimard).

Game Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

The following moneyline from MyBookie is showing that John Caldone is a moderate favorite to win this showdown. Adding Caldone to a parlay with other larger odds could prove to be beneficial in boosting the potential payout.


  • Nathaniel Grimard : +215

  • John Caldone: -344

  • *odds are subject to changes

Both fighters stack up well on paper and will need a victory to continue climbing the ladder for division rankings. Grimard makes an appealing attempt here, but will potentially end early for him. Overall, look for Caldone to come away with the decision victory.

Final Pick: Take John Caldone to Win at -344

Written By: David White