The organizers have announced that all preparations are finalised for a spectacular evening of world-class fights on January 25, marking a thrilling chapter in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) Road to Dubai Champions Series.
The stage is set, the energy is electric, and anticipation is soaring for a night that promises to captivate fans and celebrate the spirit of global competition.
The event is organized by the PFL in partnership with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council.
The inaugural edition of PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series will take place on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena.
Details of the event were unveiled during a press conference held on Wednesday.
Taking centre stage is the triumphant return of the undefeated Bellator Lightweight World Champion, Usman Nurmagomedov, famously known as the “Pride of Dagestan.”
With an impeccable record of 18-0, Nurmagomedov aims to extend his reign atop the division.
Standing in his path is Ireland’s rising star, Paul “Big News” Hughes (13-1), fresh off the crowning achievement of his career — a stunning victory over AJ McKee at PFL’s electrifying “Battle of the Giants.” This clash of titans promises to deliver an unforgettable night of MMA excellence.
Rising Irish star Hughes described the fight as a historic occasion, expressing his determination to add to his impressive record of 13 wins.
“This fight demands both physical strength and mental focus. I’m in the best shape of my career, which makes the timing of this bout perfect,” he said.
Hughes shared insights into his preparation:
“I’ve travelled the world to get ready for this fight, training in Florida, returning to Belfast, and then arriving in Dubai two weeks ago to acclimate to the conditions. My training plan has been meticulous, covering everything from sleep patterns to nutrition, while avoiding external distractions and focusing solely on the fight.”
Acknowledging his opponent’s calibre, Hughes added: “My rival is an exceptional athlete, which makes this challenge even greater. However, my confidence is strong, and I’m ready to step into the cage and secure a victory. You should never underestimate your opponent — something my rival might learn the hard way next week.”
The event will feature 24 fighters from 13 countries, including the UAE, Russia, England, Ireland, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Algeria, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan. Some of the highlighted matchups include:Emirati Hadi Omar Al Husseini versus Filipino Roel Banales; Irish Nathan Kelly versus Russian Khasan Magomedsharipov; Irish Kenny Mokhwana versus English Ibrahim Ibrahimov; Brazilian Clevers Fernandez versus Russian Renat Khavalov; Egyptian Ahmed Sami versus Syrian Tarek Suleiman; Russian Yakub Suleimanov versus Jordanian Jarrah Al-Silawi; Irish John Mitchell versus Algerian Souhail Thairy; Uzbek Mirafzal “Mirko” Akhtamov versus English Mike “Levi” Thompson and
Saudi Mustafa Nada versus Pakistani-British Haider “Darth” Khan.
Hussaini will be looking to get back to winning ways after losing his undefeated record in his PFL debut this past July, as he fights in front of a home crowd against former RSF champion Panales.
Dubai-based Sulimanov is set to defend his perfect record in a thrilling showdown against the seasoned Jordanian warrior, Selawe (20-7). This electrifying matchup promises a clash of skill and experience as Sulimanov looks to solidify his dominance in the cage.
Dubai’s own John Mitchell (9-2), a standout from the renowned 971 Academy and a five-time Irish MMA champion, will bring his exceptional pedigree.
He faces off against PFL Mena’s Algerian powerhouse, Tairi (7-5-1), in a contest brimming with grit and determination.
The Road to Dubai Champions Series heralds a transformative moment for mixed martial arts in the region, serving as a shining platform to cultivate rising Emirati talent and elevate them onto the global stage.
The first-of-its-kind partnership will see MMA world champions and the sport’s biggest stars from the PFL compete in title fights as Dubai becomes a marquee destination for the best of MMA.
All other Champions Series events will now be co-branded as ‘Road to Dubai’, as each show culminates to the finale set in the new fight capital.
This prestigious event embodies the PFL’s grand vision of positioning Dubai as a beacon of sporting excellence and solidifying its status as a vibrant hub for world-class athletic endeavours.
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