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Rauli Tutarauli stands on the brink of history as he prepares for the biggest bout of his professional career at BRAVE CF: GEORGIA VS. THE WORLD on Friday, October 3, at the Tbilisi New Sports Palace.
The Georgian sensation is set to collide with Dutch veteran Pieter “The Archangel” Buist in a five-round main event for the BRAVE CF Interim Lightweight World Championship.
A victory would not only cement Tutarauli as a World Champion, but also make him the first Georgian to ever capture gold under the BRAVE Combat Federation banner.
“This is more than just a belt for me. If I win, I carry the pride of my country with me. Becoming the first Georgian BRAVE CF World Champion would mean everything — for myself, for my family, and for our nation’s future in mixed martial arts,” Tutarauli said.
Georgia has been making significant waves in the all-encompassing sport, producing high-level athletes such as Ilia “El Matador” Topuria and Guram “Georgian Viking” Kutateladze, both of whom once competed in BRAVE CF before ascending to superstardom.
The 33-year-old now has the chance to etch his name alongside theirs — and do so in front of a roaring home crowd.
The milestone becomes even more special as BRAVE CF holds its first-ever event in Georgia, marking the country as the 37th nation to host a live show for the fast-rising global promotion.
“To fight for a World Title in front of my people, in my own city, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I feel the whole nation behind me. That motivation gives me strength. I want to make sure October 3 is remembered forever in Georgian MMA history,” Tutarauli declared.
Still, the road ahead is not without obstacles.
Buist, a seasoned competitor with 27 matches, has fought on some of the sport’s grandest stages and brings a wealth of experience into the cage.
Tutarauli knows he will have to be at his very best to secure victory.
Overcoming Buist could also pave the way for Tutarauli to eventually meet reigning lineal king Abdisalam Uulu “Omok” Kubanychbek once again.
The Georgian already tasted championship-level competition when he challenged Kubanychbek at BRAVE CF 87 in September 2024, falling short in their encounter.
A second chance at redemption, however, can only come after handling the task at hand.
“I respect Buist and everything he has done in this sport. He is dangerous and experienced, but I believe this is my time. If I can beat him, it will prepare me for Kubanychbek and the real crown. But first, my focus is on October 3. That night, I will fight with everything I have to give Georgia its first BRAVE CF World Champion,” Tutarauli affirmed.
With history, redemption, and national pride all on the line, Tutarauli’s date with destiny awaits in Tbilisi.
