$6 Million On The Line
The lives of six fighters will be changed forever this Friday as the PFL World Championship takes place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The main card features six high-stakes fights, each serving as the final decider in the PFL global tournament with a cash prize of $1 million for the winner, in addition to the championship belt.
For the twelve fighters competing in the smartcage on Friday, this marks the end of an intense season that began in April. With two regular season fights and one playoff bout already behind them, these fighters have barely had a chance to rest before gearing up for the final battles. Some have previous experience in this tournament, while others are embarking on their first journey to claim the largest cash prize in MMA.
Let’s delve into the six world title fights set to headline the event at the Mayadeen in Riyadh this Friday.
Brendan Loughnane (30-5) vs Timur Khizriev (17-0) – Featherweight
Brendan Loughnane is vying for his second PFL championship in three years when he goes up against Timur Khizriev in the main event. The experienced Mancunian suffered a surprising first-round KO defeat in the 2023 season but made a strong comeback this year with wins over Pefro Carvalho and Justin Gonzales, followed by a close victory over Kai Kamaka in the playoffs via split decision.
His Dagesatni opponent has been quietly building his reputation under both Bellator and the PFL banners, securing victories over respected opponents like Richie Smullen and Brett Johns. Khizriev brings a suffocating grappling style into the showdown, which may pose a challenge for Loughnane’s striking prowess.
Dakota Ditcheva (13-0) vs Taila Santos (22-3) – Flyweight
The rising star in women’s MMA faces a tough test in Taila Santos, a UFC veteran with the experience to present unique challenges to “Dangerous.” Dakota Ditcheva claimed the PFL European tournament title in 2023 and has continued her success in the global tournament this year with three consecutive first-round finishes against tough opponents.
Taila Santos joined the PFL after parting ways with the UFC and has maintained a perfect win record in the flyweight tournament, defeating tough competition along the way.
Impa Kasanganay (18-4) vs Doglet Yagshimuradov (24-7-1) – Light heavyweight
Impa Kasanganay aims to defend his global tournament title from last year. After a memorable highlight moment in UFC against Joaquin Buckley, Kasanganay has continued to impress under the PFL banner, earning another shot at the championship by winning three fights this year.
Magomed Umalatov (17-0) vs Shamil Musaev (19-0-1) – Welterweight
The welterweight title will be decided in an all-Russian matchup between Magomed Umalatov and Shamil Musaev. Umalatov, undefeated in his PFL fights so far, faces a tough challenge in Musaev, who has impressed in his debut season with stellar performances.
Brent Primus (15-3) vs Gadzhi Rabadonov (23-4-2) – Lightweight
Former Bellator champion Brent Primus, despite his age, shows no signs of slowing down. Known for his submission skills, Primus aims to showcase his ability against Rabadanov in Saudi Arabia.
Denis Goltsov (35-8) vs Oleg Popov (19-1) – Heavyweight
The heavyweight title will be contested in another all-Russian showdown between Denis Goltsov and Oleg Popov. Goltsov returns after a defeat last year, looking to claim the championship this time around.
For the full fight card and event details, see below:
2024 PFL Championships Global Season:Friday, November 29 – Live on ESPN+ / DAZNRiyadh, Saudi Arabia1 pm ET/10 am PT
(remaining content stays the same)
Source link
