by Adam Josephson
Bubba Jenkins Aims for First-Round Finish to Secure 2024 PFL Playoff Spot
Bubba Jenkins (21-8) is setting his sights on a first-round victory to ensure his place in the 2024 Professional Fighters League (PFL) Playoffs. Jenkins will compete against rising Brazilian star Gabriel Braga (13-1) in a featherweight bout at PFL 6 on Friday, June 28, held at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Jenkins had a tough start to his 2024 campaign, suffering a unanimous decision loss to Kai Kamaka III in April, marking his first defeat in the PFL in four years. In contrast, Braga opened his season with a spectacular first-round knockout of Justin Gonzales, earning six points and positioning himself as a strong contender.
Determined to continue his streak of playoff appearances, Jenkins is focused on securing a first-round finish against Braga. With two previous first-round submissions by rear-naked choke in his PFL career, Jenkins is confident he can earn a third. “Six points. Quick six, I need it, I gots to have it,” Jenkins declared at PFL media day. He acknowledged the urgency of his situation, stating, “I’m fighting an opponent who has his [points], and I’ve got to take this from what I consider a friendly acquaintance.”
Jenkins emphasized his aggressive strategy, noting, “It’s go in, get it done, see how quickly we can either get a TKO, a referee stoppage, or lock up a submission and get him out of there.” He expressed frustration over his current standing, adding, “I’m playoff Jenkins, so the fact that I’m behind the eight ball a little bit, it perturbs me, I’m a little vexed.”
The PFL tournament format determines playoff spots based on points accrued in two regular-season fights. Each win is worth three points, and fighters can earn up to three additional points for finishes: three for a first-round finish, two for a second-round finish, and one for a third-round finish. Jenkins’ goal is clear: a swift and decisive win to keep his playoff hopes alive.
