The inaugural PFL MENA Season debut event took place at The Green Halls in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last Friday, May 10th, and provided a handful of memorable moments. From jaw-dropping knockouts to stunning submissions, here are five highlights from PFL MENA: Riyadh
Abdullah Al-Qahtani Thrills the Hometown Crowd
In the main event, Riyadh’s very own Abdullah Al-Qahtani showcased his skills in front of his adoring fans with a dominant performance against Yazeed Hasanain. Al-Qahtani's relentless attack and unforgiving barrage of strikes led to a verbal submission victory at the last second of Round 2, securing his spot in the PFL MENA Featherweight Semifinals and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
It was indeed a landmark moment for the rising star, who now moves one step closer to becoming a PFL MENA champion.
Hattan Alsaif announces her Arrival to MMA and the PFL
Another hometown favorite, Hattan Alsaif made history in her amateur MMA debut. A highly-decorated Muay Thai practitioner, Alsaif showcased her elite striking skills and delivered a stunning head kick knockout against Nada Faheem in the second round. This impressive debut came just months after she made history by becoming the first ever female from Saudi Arabia to sign a contract with a major MMA promotion.
If this is any indication of how Alsaif’s MMA career will go, then it looks like Saudi Arabia has another star in the making.
Ali Taleb Dominates His Way to the Semifinals
Iraq's Ali Taleb proved to be a force to be reckoned with as he dominated Nawras Abzakh in the co-main event. From start to finish, Taleb imposed his will on his opponent, earning a unanimous decision victory and securing a spot in the Bantamweight Semifinals. With his impressive performance, Taleb improved his career record to 11-1 and solidified his status as a top contender in the division.
A favorite to go all the way in the bantamweight division, Taleb strengthens his chances at becoming the inaugural PFL MENA 135-pound titleholder.
Rachid El Hazoume's Submission Masterclass
Morocco's Rachid El Hazoume showcased his submission skills in a thrilling showdown against Xavier Alaoui. After a back-and-forth battle, El Hazoume locked in a rear-naked choke in the second round, forcing Alaoui to tap out and advancing to the Bantamweight Semifinals.
With the victory, El Hazoume moved to an impressive 14-3 in his career and proved why he is a force to be reckoned with in the division.
Maraoune Bellagouit's Undefeated Streak Continues
In Featherweight action, Morocco's Maraoune Bellagouit extended his undefeated streak with a powerful knockout victory over Mido Mohamed. Bellagouit landed a devastating left hook in the third round, sending Mohamed to the canvas and securing his spot in the Featherweight Semifinals.
With the win, Bellagouit moved to an impressive 5-0 in his career and established himself as a top contender in the division.
Overall, the inaugural event of PFL MENA in Riyadh showcased the incredible talent and excitement of MMA in the region. With thrilling performances and historic moments, the night proved to be a memorable start to what promises to be an exhilarating season of action-packed fights.
PFL MENA returns to action with the Featherweight and Bantamweight Semifinals on July 5th.