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Impa Kasanganay’s victory over Josh Silveira in the 2024 PFL Playoffs 2 may have settled the score in the cage, but outside it, tensions still simmer. After securing a dominant win in their rematch, the 2023 PFL light heavyweight champion didn’t hold back on his thoughts about Silveira’s approach to the fight.
Kasanganay, now heading to the 2024 PFL final, shared his disappointment with Silveira’s performance, particularly focusing on what he perceived as a lack of seriousness and dedication.
“Like I said before the fight, ‘How does a fish get caught?’ A fish gets caught, gets killed on that hook,” Kasanganay remarked, reflecting on Silveira’s pre-fight attitude. “He opened his mouth and got hit with the hook. Go back and watch it. He’s lacking focus.”
For Kasanganay, the issue was not just about Silveira’s tactics in the octagon but his entire mindset leading up to the bout.
“To me, respectfully, it’s an insult to his dad and his team,” Kasanganay expressed, voicing his frustration. “You’re sitting in front of your dad, who I respect, and you’re taking it as a joke. You’re better than that, and I challenge him for that.”
Despite the fierce competition, Kasanganay expected more from Silveira, especially given their history. The two had previously clashed in the 2023 PFL final, where Kasanganay claimed the 205-pound belt and the $1 million prize. This time around, Kasanganay noticed some improvement but felt Silveira still lacked the focus necessary to evolve as a fighter.
“I think he chose to go for it more so than showing he’s a better fighter,” Kasanganay observed. “He committed to things – that was good. But it’s like going broke every time. He still lost focus screaming in there.”
Kasanganay’s critique extended beyond the octagon, as he emphasized the importance of discipline and focus, particularly when representing one’s team and family.
“Josh, just focus on who you are,” he advised, pointing to Silveira’s distracted behavior during the fight. “He has such a good dad and team, and he’s insulting them by that. So that’s my message to him.”
As Kasanganay prepares for the next stage in the 2024 PFL season, his victory over Silveira stands as a reminder that in the world of professional fighting, focus and respect are just as crucial as physical skill.
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