Denis Goltsov won the heavyweight title at the 2024 PFL World Championships with a first-round submission against Oleg Popov, finally achieving his dream after four unsuccessful attempts, and expressed interest in a future fight with Francis Ngannou.
The fifth time really was the charm for Denis Goltsov.
Finally, the Russian fighter snagged his dream: the heavyweight title. It happened during the 2024 PFL World Championships with a jaw-dropping first-round submission against Oleg Popov.
After four seasons of near-misses, Goltsov seized this opportunity. Popov started strong with a takedown. But Goltsov? He countered swiftly with a triangle choke from below. Adjusting his position, he locked it in tight. The referee checked—Popov was out cold.
The end came at exactly 2:55 in the opening round.
“I’m really happy because it’s my fifth time,” Goltsov exclaimed post-victory. “This year is very good because I feel my condition was much better than last year.”
He added, “Now I think I am ready and I want a big fight. Maybe next year you can see me in the cage again. Of course, Francis Ngannou [is the fight].”
A moment of suspense followed as Goltsov removed his gloves—often a retirement signal. But no, he was just prepping to hold his $1 million check! He’s eyeing a super fight in 2025 after years in the PFL’s tournament grind.
As it stands, Ngannou lacks an opponent. Could Goltsov be positioning himself as the prime candidate for “The Predator’s” return next year?