PFL Week 5: Clay Collard vs. Mads Burnell continues on the main card with a fight between Rob Wilkinson and Josh Silveira in the light heavyweight division. Wilkinson made quick work in his return fight with a first-round TKO finish meanwhile, Silveira got back on track after suffering his PFL Championship defeat in 2023. With that said, check out our PFL odds series for our Wilkinson-Silveira prediction and pick.

Rob Wilkinson (18-2) had his 2023 PFL season cut short when he tested positive for a banned substance after defeating Thiago Santos. He is now back and made quick work in his return fight in this PFL season when he knocked out Tom Breese in under two minutes. Wilkinson will look to continue his winning ways when he takes on 2023 PFL finalist Josh Silveira as he looks to secure his spot in the playoffs this Friday night.

Josh Silveira (13-2) came into this PFL season looking to get back to the PFL Championship after coming up short in his title bid last season against Impa Kasanganay. Silveira got off to a great start with a TKO victory and 6 points in his first fight. Now, Silveira will have to get past the 2022 PFL Champion Rob Wilkinson to secure his spot in the PFL playoffs this Friday night.

Here are the PFL 5 Odds, courtesy of BetOnline. 

PFL 5 Odds: Rob Wilkinson-Josh Silveira Odds

Rob Wilkinson: -275

Josh Silveira: +215

Over 1.5 rounds: -140

Under 1.5 rounds: +110

*Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (click for a free trial)*

Why Rob Wilkinson Will Win

Rob Wilkinson is set to face Josh Silveira at PFL 5 on Friday, and Wilkinson is likely to emerge victorious in this light heavyweight clash.

Wilkinson’s aggressive style and finishing ability make him a formidable opponent. With a professional record of 17-2, Wilkinson has demonstrated his prowess with nine knockouts and seven submissions, showcasing his versatility and ability to end fights decisively. His physical attributes, including a 6’3″ frame and an 80-inch reach, give him a significant advantage in both striking exchanges and grappling engagements.

Wilkinson’s experience and resilience are key factors. Despite a setback in 2023 due to a suspension, he has bounced back with a renewed focus and determination. His ability to adapt and overcome adversity will be crucial against Silveira, who has shown weaknesses in his cardio and striking defense.

Wilkinson’s strategic approach to fights, leveraging his reach and power, will likely neutralize Silveira’s grappling strengths. Wilkinson’s ability to maintain distance and control the pace of the fight will be pivotal in securing a win. Wilkinson’s combination of physical advantages, finishing ability, and strategic acumen positions him as the favorite to defeat Josh Silveira at PFL 5.

Why Josh Silveira Will Win

Josh Silveira is poised to take on Rob Wilkinson at PFL 5 on Friday, and Silveira is likely to secure a victory in this highly anticipated light heavyweight bout.

Silveira’s grappling pedigree is a significant advantage. As a two-time NCAA Division II All-American wrestler and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Silveira has a well-rounded ground game that can neutralize Wilkinson’s striking prowess. His ability to control opponents on the mat and secure submissions makes him a dangerous adversary for anyone, including Wilkinson.

Silveira’s professional record of 13-2 has shown consistent improvement and adaptability in his fights during his time with the PFL. His recent performances have demonstrated his ability to blend striking and grappling seamlessly, making him a versatile and unpredictable fighter.

Silveira’s fight IQ and strategic approach will be crucial in this matchup. He has shown the ability to execute game plans effectively, exploiting his opponents’ weaknesses while minimizing his own vulnerabilities. Against Wilkinson, Silveira’s strategy will likely involve closing the distance, utilizing his wrestling to control the fight, and avoiding prolonged striking exchanges where Wilkinson excels.

Josh Silveira’s grappling expertise, undefeated PFL record, and strategic fight approach make him a strong candidate to defeat Rob Wilkinson at PFL 5.

Final Rob Wilkinson-Josh Silveira Prediction & Pick

This should be a great fight between these two surging PFL light heavyweights. Wilkinson is looking to get back to the promised land by reaching the PFL championship in hopes of becoming the champ again meanwhile, Silveira is looking to finally get over that hump and be victorious this year at obtaining the PFL championship and bringing home that $1 Million prize. While Silveira is an elite grappler he has had a rough time when he’s not able to dominate on the mat and that’s where he runs into problems against Wilkinson who’s formidable on the mat and has the knockout power on the feet. Ultimately, Wilkinson should fend off the takedowns early which lead the way to him landing devastating strikes putting Silveira away midway through this fight and securing his spot in the PFL playoffs.

Click here for more betting news and predictions

Final Rob Wilkinson-Josh Silveira Prediction & Pick: Rob Wilkinson (-275), Under 1.5 Rounds (+110)