PFL - Road To Dubai - Betting Preview

Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes Headline the PFL’s Historic Dubai Debut

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is set to make its historic Dubai debut on January 25, 2025, at the Coca-Cola Arena. As the first event in a multi-year partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), this card showcases the PFL’s ambitions to expand MMA’s global reach. Featuring world-class fighters and thrilling matchups, this event promises to captivate fans across the globe.

Here’s a comprehensive preview of the main card for this landmark event, including UK-style betting odds for each fight.

Main Event: Lightweight Title Bout

Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0) vs. Paul Hughes (13-1)

  • Odds: Usman Nurmagomedov 2/5 | Paul Hughes 2/1

The undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov headlines the event as one of MMA’s brightest stars. Known for his elite grappling and striking versatility, the former Bellator Lightweight Champion enters this fight as the clear favorite. His dominance has yet to be seriously challenged, making him a daunting opponent for any contender.

Paul Hughes, a former Cage Warriors Featherweight Champion, is stepping into the biggest fight of his career. Hughes’ fast-paced striking and durability could pose unique challenges for Nurmagomedov. While the odds are against him, Hughes’ resilience and creative striking make him a live underdog with upset potential.

Prediction: Nurmagomedov’s superior grappling and fight IQ should secure him another win, likely via submission or decision.

Co-Main Event: Heavyweight Bout

Vadim Nemkov (18-2) vs. Anthony Johnson (23-7)

  • Odds: Vadim Nemkov 4/7 | Anthony Johnson 6/4

Vadim Nemkov, the reigning PFL Light Heavyweight Champion, steps up to heavyweight to face Anthony “Rumble” Johnson. Nemkov’s technical striking and excellent cardio have been the key to his impressive 13-fight unbeaten streak, and he’s proven to be one of MMA’s most consistent performers.

Anthony Johnson’s legendary knockout power makes him a dangerous opponent in any weight class. Known for ending fights in an instant, Johnson’s path to victory lies in landing early. However, Nemkov’s tactical approach and ability to weather storms may prove too much for “Rumble.”

Prediction: Nemkov’s precision and durability should see him through to a decision or late stoppage, but Johnson remains a serious threat in the early rounds.

Featherweight Bout

Ibragim Ibragimov (15-0) vs. Kenny Mokhonoana (11-2)

  • Odds: Ibragim Ibragimov 1/3 | Kenny Mokhonoana 5/2

Ibragim Ibragimov, an undefeated Dagestani prospect, has built a reputation for relentless pressure and dominant grappling. Training alongside some of the best in the world, Ibragimov looks poised to continue his meteoric rise.

Kenny Mokhonoana, an exciting Irish featherweight, brings explosive striking and submission skills to the cage. Mokhonoana’s path to victory lies in avoiding the takedowns and landing clean shots on the feet. It’s a tall order against someone as relentless as Ibragimov.

Prediction: Ibragimov’s wrestling advantage is likely to be the deciding factor, with a dominant ground performance leading to a win.

Bantamweight Bout

Khasan Khavalov (14-2) vs. Felipe Fernandes (16-4)

  • Odds: Khasan Khavalov 1/2 | Felipe Fernandes 15/8

Khasan Khavalov has emerged as a tactical and precise fighter in the bantamweight division, using a mix of striking and grappling to overwhelm opponents. His ability to control fights and adapt to his opponents makes him a tough matchup for anyone.

Felipe Fernandes, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt with knockout power, is no stranger to high-pressure situations. His ability to transition between striking and grappling creates opportunities for finishes, particularly if he can dictate the pace of the fight.

Prediction: Khavalov’s strategic approach gives him the edge in a competitive fight, likely earning him a decision victory.

Welterweight Bout

Shane Mitchell (20-6) vs. Abubakar Taisumov (26-7)

  • Odds: Abubakar Taisumov 4/11 | Shane Mitchell 11/5

Abubakar Taisumov, renowned for his explosive striking and elite finishing ability, is one of the most dangerous welterweights in the game. With experience against top-level opponents, Taisumov has the tools to finish fights in spectacular fashion.

Shane Mitchell, a gritty Australian fighter, thrives in chaotic exchanges and has proven his ability to push opponents to their limits. While he faces a skill disadvantage on paper, Mitchell’s relentless pressure and toughness make him a potential upset candidate.

Prediction: Taisumov’s precision and power likely lead to a knockout victory, though Mitchell’s grit will make it an entertaining contest.

How to Watch

The PFL "Road to Dubai Champions Series" will air live on Channel 4 in the UK and Max in the US. TNT Sports will also show the full card and pe lims.  International fans can tune in through various PFL streaming partners, and tickets are available for fans wanting to experience the action live at the Coca-Cola Arena.

This event promises to deliver unforgettable moments, solidifying the PFL’s presence in the Middle East and further elevating Dubai as a global MMA destination.

Fan Consensus Predictions

Main Event: Lightweight Title Bout

  • Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0) vs. Paul Hughes (13-1)Community Prediction:Approximately 87% of Tapology users favorUsman Nurmagomedovto win, highlighting his undefeated record and comprehensive skill set.
  • Community Prediction:Approximately 87% of Tapology users favorUsman Nurmagomedovto win, highlighting his undefeated record and comprehensive skill set.

Co-Main Event: Heavyweight Bout

  • Vadim Nemkov (18-2) vs. Tim Johnson (18-10)Community Prediction:A significant 97% of Tapology users predict a victory forVadim Nemkov, citing his technical proficiency and recent performance streak.
  • Community Prediction:A significant 97% of Tapology users predict a victory forVadim Nemkov, citing his technical proficiency and recent performance streak.

Featherweight Bout

  • Nathan Kelly (11-2) vs. Akhmed Magomedov (10-1)Community Prediction:Approximately 73% of Tapology users are backingNathan Kelly, noting his striking capabilities and recent momentum.
  • Community Prediction:Approximately 73% of Tapology users are backingNathan Kelly, noting his striking capabilities and recent momentum.

Featherweight Bout

  • Ibragim Ibragimov (8-0) vs. Kenny Mokhonoana (5-1)Community Prediction:A dominant 95% of Tapology users favorIbragim Ibragimov, emphasizing his undefeated status and wrestling background.
  • Community Prediction:A dominant 95% of Tapology users favorIbragim Ibragimov, emphasizing his undefeated status and wrestling background.

Bantamweight Bout

  • Khasan Khavalov (8-0) vs. Cleiver Fernandes (9-1)Community Prediction:Approximately 97% of Tapology users predict a win forKhasan Khavalov, highlighting his unblemished record and grappling expertise.
  • Community Prediction:Approximately 97% of Tapology users predict a win forKhasan Khavalov, highlighting his unblemished record and grappling expertise.

These predictions reflect the current sentiments of the MMA community leading up to the event.