The world’s attention turns to Dubai tonight (Saturday, January 25) for a thrilling night of global fights featuring elite mixed martial arts (MMA) stars. The “Road to Champions in Dubai” event, taking place at Coca-Cola Arena, is organized by the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in partnership with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council.

MMA fans will gather in the arena and tune in via global TV and online broadcasts to witness 11 bouts featuring 22 fighters from 13 countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Ireland, the United States, Brazil, England, Uzbekistan, Kuwait, Egypt, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, and the Philippines.

Headlining the event is the much-anticipated main fight between world champion Russian-Dagestani Usman Nurmagomedov and Irish fighter Paul Hughes. The duo has dominated headlines in recent days, with fans eagerly awaiting this showdown.

Other notable matchups include Emirati Hadi Omar Al-Husseini facing Filipino Roel Banales, Irishman Nathan Kelly battling Russian Khasan Magomedov, Ireland’s Kenny Mokhwana taking on England’s Ibrahim Ibragimov, American Johnson clashing with Russian Nemkov, Brazilian Clevers Fernandes competing against Russian Rinat Khavalov, Egyptian Ahmed Sami squaring off with Syrian Tarek Suleiman, Uzbek Muravzal “Mirko” Akhtamov versus England’s Mike “Levi” Thompson, Irishman John Mitchell against Algerian Souhail Thairi, and Saudi Mustafa Nada meeting British Haider “Darth” Khan. Additionally, an amateur bout will feature Emirati Saeed Al-Hosani against Kuwaiti Talal Al-Qallaf.

PFL CEO Peter Murray emphasized the exceptional quality of the participating fighters, stating, “This championship will deliver outstanding performances, showcasing the remarkable skills and expertise of the fighters we have carefully selected for these bouts. This is a night that will remain etched in the memories of fans for years to come. We are thrilled to host this championship in Dubai for the first time. Through our partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council, we aim to establish a long-term legacy of success and widespread acclaim, leveraging Dubai’s global reputation as a hub for major sporting events.”

Murray added, “We are delighted to have two Emirati fighters participating in this championship: Hadi Omar Al-Husseini in the professional category and Saeed Al-Hosani in the amateur category. This highlights our commitment to supporting local talent and ensuring their presence in global competitions. We are excited to witness strong performances, as the fighters have undergone intense preparations, aligning with our goal at the PFL to guide their professional journeys toward greater achievements. Hosting this major event at a premier venue like Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai is a significant step, and we anticipate a turnout that reflects the popularity and prestige of the PFL.”

The official weigh-ins for the fighters took place on Friday, January 25. The “Road to Champions in Dubai” matches will kick off at 7:30 PM on Saturday at Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai. Tickets are now available for purchase at:

https://www.coca-cola-arena.com/sports/933/road-to-dubai-champions-series-nurmagomedov-nbsp-vs-nbsp-hughes