Get ready for an electrifying start to 2025 as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) kicks off the new year with a blockbuster event: PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series!
Streaming live exclusively in the U.S. on Max, this unmissable showdown begins at 10:30 am EST on Saturday, January 25, delivering non-stop MMA action from Dubai’s iconic Coca-Cola Arena, nestled in the heart of the vibrant City Walk.
Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes – A Rivalry Rekindled!
Headlining this spectacular card is none other than the undefeated Bellator Lightweight World Champion Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0), putting his pristine record and title on the line against Ireland’s fiery challenger Paul ‘Big News’ Hughes (13-1). With national pride at stake, this matchup reignites the intense rivalry between Dagestan and Ireland—promising fireworks in the cage!
Co-Main Event: Heavyweight Clash of Titans
The co-main event features former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Vadim Nemkov (18-2) stepping into the heavyweight division to face the hard-hitting former Minnesota National Guard sergeant Tim Johnson (18-10). This bout promises high-octane action as these two titans collide in a heavyweight war.
More Action-Packed Bouts to Watch Out For:
Featherweight Bout: Akhmed Magomedov (10-1) vs. Nathan Kelly (11-2)
Featherweight Bout: Ibragim Ibragimov (8-0) vs. Kenny Mokhonoana (5-1)
Bantamweight Bout: Renat Khavalov (8-0) vs. Cleiver Fernandes (9-1)
Preliminary Card Highlights:
Middleweight Bout: Tarek Suleiman (13-8) vs. Ahmed Samy (11-4)
Middleweight Bout: Yakub Sulimanov (7-0) vs. Jarrah Al-Selawe (20-7)
Lightweight Bout: Mirafzal Akhtamov (7-0-1) vs. Mike Thompson (7-2)
Flyweight Bout: Hadi Omar Al Hussaini (5-1-1) vs. Ruel Pañales (5-2)
Lightweight Bout: John Mitchell (9-2) vs. Souhil Tairi (7-5-1)
Middleweight Bout: Mostafa Nada (9-3) vs. Haider Khan (8-1)
A Game-Changing Partnership: Road to Dubai Begins!
This monumental event marks the launch of PFL’s groundbreaking multi-year partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Sports Council (DSC). Through this collaboration, Dubai is set to become a premier destination for global MMA events, hosting world-class fights featuring the biggest stars and future champions. The “Road to Dubai” initiative will pave the way for rising Emirati fighters to showcase their talent on an international stage, with an aim to crown future PFL champions from the region.
Don’t Miss Out – Join the Action Live!
With a stacked fight card, heated rivalries, and the world’s top MMA talent converging in Dubai, PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series promises to be an unforgettable night of combat sports. Mark your calendars, set your reminders, and tune in to Max on January 25 for a front-row seat to history in the making!