- George Chung
- Dec 19, 2024
- 2 min read
The Professional Fighters League (PFL), has unveiled the electrifying undercard for the PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. This event isn’t just another fight night—it’s a revolution in MMA, bringing global talent and local heroes to the forefront on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai’s City Walk.
The Fights to Watch: Dubai's Stars and Global Warriors
Tarek Suleiman vs. Ahmed “Lee” SamyKickstarting the night, Tarek Suleiman (13-8) faces Egypt’s Ahmed “Lee” Samy (11-4) in a clash destined for fireworks. These seasoned warriors will bring their A-game to prove who reigns supreme in the SmartCage.
Hadi Omar Al Hussaini’s Redemption ArcDubai’s own Hadi Omar Al Hussaini (5-1-1) is ready to reclaim his winning streak after a disappointing loss in July. Fighting in front of a passionate home crowd, he’ll square off against Ruel “Bagsik” Pañales (5-2), a former RSF champion with dangerous striking skills.
Yakub Sulimanov vs. Jarrah “Jordanian Lion” Al-SelaweIn a fight that screams don’t blink, Dubai-based undefeated phenom Yakub Sulimanov (7-0) takes on Jordan’s MMA veteran Jarrah “Jordanian Lion” Al-Selawe (20-7). Can Sulimanov hold onto his perfect record, or will the lion roar in Dubai?
Ireland’s John Mitchell vs. Algeria’s Souhil TairiRepresenting Dubai’s 971 Academy, five-time Irish MMA champ John Mitchell (9-2) will test his grit against PFL MENA’s Algerian powerhouse Souhil Tairi (7-5-1) in a battle that promises high stakes and high drama.
More Local Heroes and Rising Stars
Emirati favorite Youssef Al Housani (4-1) takes on Egypt’s unbeaten Assem Ghanem (4-0) in a fight to establish supremacy in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s Mostafa Nada (9-3), riding an epic five-fight win streak, faces the British-Pakistani PFL debutant Haider “Darth” Khan (8-1), who has stormed through his last four opponents.
Undefeated Mirafzal “Mirko” Akhtamov (7-0-1) from Uzbekistan locks horns with England’s KO artist Mike “Lefty” Thompson (7-2) in what could be the sleeper hit of the night.
Headliner Showdown: Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes
The Road to Dubai culminates in a jaw-dropping main event featuring “The Pride of Dagestan,” Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0), defending his lightweight title against Ireland’s surging star, Paul “Big News” Hughes (13-1). Fresh off his career-defining victory over AJ McKee, Hughes is determined to end Nurmagomedov’s perfect streak. Can he pull off the upset, or will Nurmagomedov continue his reign of terror?
This groundbreaking event marks the first Road to Dubai under the PFL’s multi-year partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Sports Council (DSC). This collaboration not only cements Dubai as a global MMA hub but also paves the way for Emirati fighters to rise to PFL stardom. Future Champions Series events will build toward epic finales in Dubai, the sport’s newest fight capital.
Don’t miss history in the making! The Road to Dubai Champions Series promises unforgettable battles, electric energy, and the brightest stars in MMA. Be there on January 25, 2025, as Dubai transforms into the ultimate destination for fight fans worldwide.
