Impa Kasanganay Stuns Andrew Sanchez with Late Knockout
Former PFL Champion Delivers Dramatic Comeback in Middleweight Clash
In a fight that tested grit, patience, and championship resolve, Impa Kasanganay delivered a thunderous third-round knockout over fellow UFC veteran Andrew Sanchez at PFL World Tournament 10 on August 21, 2025, in Hollywood, Florida. The bout, contested at middleweight, saw Kasanganay rally from behind to score the finish at 4:31 of Round 3, snapping his two-fight skid and reigniting his campaign for another PFL title run.
Slow Start, Explosive Finish
Kasanganay (19–6) entered the cage as a former PFL light heavyweight champion but struggled early against Sanchez’s pressure and volume. Sanchez (14–9) controlled much of the fight with sharp jabs, clinch work, and takedown attempts that kept Kasanganay on the defensive.
But as the third round wore on, Kasanganay found his moment. With just 30 seconds left, he uncorked a right hand that sent Sanchez face-first to the canvas. Though Sanchez protested the stoppage, the referee had seen enough, awarding Kasanganay the TTKO victory.
Redemption for Kasanganay
The win marks a critical turning point for Kasanganay, who had dropped back-to-back fights prior to PFL 10. Known for his resilience and cerebral approach, the 31-year-old fighter from Kill Cliff FC showed once again why he remains a dangerous presence in any division.
“This was about staying composed and believing in the finish,” Kasanganay said in his post-fight interview. “I knew I had one shot left, and I took it.”
Sanchez’s Protest and Future Outlook
Sanchez, a gritty competitor with wins over Khalil Rountree and Wellington Turman in his UFC tenure, was visibly frustrated by the stoppage. After being dropped, he appeared to recover quickly and voiced his displeasure to officials. Still, the loss adds another setback to his recent record, and questions now loom about his next move in the PFL.
What’s Next for Kasanganay?
With the win, Kasanganay reasserts himself as a top contender in the PFL’s middleweight bracket. His ability to finish fights late and absorb punishment makes him a compelling figure for future matchups. Fans are already speculating about potential bouts against rising stars like Lazaro Dayron or a rematch with Josh Silveira.
For full fight replay and analysis, visit MMA Junkie’s coverage and Tapology’s bout breakdown.
