Brendan Loughnane has been through it all with the PFL since joining them back in 2019, when business was just beginning. Having won a championship in 2022, Loughnane has become accustomed to the PFL Regular Season format and being one of the most pivotal and recognized faces for the PFL. After losing to Jesus Pinedo in the second round of the 2023 Regular Season, Loughnane took time away from competition and it served as the best decision he’s made heading into the 2024 season.
In an interview with MMASucka.com, Loughnane discussed how he didn’t know the time off was needed until he had it, the feeling of being refreshed heading into the 2024 season, and his thoughts on his main event matchup against Kai Kamaka. Discussing his deep-rooted love for fighting, Loughnane also mentioned how growing familiar with the PFL season format has steered him away from a conventional fighting schedule which would lower his activity.
“It was tough enough to get the first one [championship] and I’m still here, still battling away, still enjoying martial arts. I love fighting. I just got used to regular competition [with PFL] and just being in it, keeping my weight low and dieting. I couldn’t imagine starting over again and having one or two fights a year, it would be so strange to me.”
As someone who has been a staple with the promotion since he become part of their roster, Loughnane says the biggest difference with the format is the focus in camp becomes more on maintaining health and weight throughout the season. That clarity he received also came from his time away which allowed him to recover but even more so, allowed him to recognized he needed to give himself a break.
“You just have to stay healthy, you really have to stay healthy. I’m sure the new guys and girls are feeling the stress of it now in August, this thing started in April, it ain’t easy let me tell you. I didn’t know I needed it [rest] until I knew I needed it but I’ve come back revitalized, refreshed, and enjoying it again. I just was able to do a lot of healing, took up things like yoga and now I’m in the fire again and I’m really enjoying it.”
Taking on Kai Kamaka who said the fight against Loughnane is more valuable to him than a PFL Championship, Loughnane paid respect to his upcoming dance partner while making it known he’s looking to end the winning streak.
“Good opponent, solid, comes from a great gym, he seems like a nice guy, I’m looking forward to it. These are the type of guys I want to be fighting, he’s on a five-fight winning streak that I’ll be looking to break. That [compliment] means a lot coming from a veteran like him, he’s had a lot of fights himself, I’m a fan of his style, I think we make for a very fan-friendly fight.”
A fan-friendly fight will be atop the marquee for the Semifinals of the 2024 PFL Featherweight and Welterweight Playoffs, and a refreshed Brendan Loughnane is looking to add a second title. Watch the full video above for the full interview with Loughnane.
