Preview: PFL Champions Series 1 ‘Road to Dubai’

Bantamweights

Renat Khavalov (8-0, 0-0 PFL) vs. Cleiver Fernandes (9-1, 0-0 PFL)

Khavalov and Fernandes haven’t fought since 2023, but both fighters could explode back onto the scene with an impressive win. Khavalov hails from Dagestan and has solid wrestling skills, but he’s known for his power. In eight wins, he has finished six of his opponents. He’s not known for having one-punch knockout power, but if he smells blood in the water, he knows how to pounce and press for the finish. Fernandes has a different approach. A talented grappler, the Brazilian has many submissions at his disposal and could catch Khavalov with something tricky if he gets too overzealous. This matchup is a clash of styles. Khavalov’s striking and pressure could carry the pace of the fight, but if Fernandes sees and opening, he can pull off a submission win. Khavalov’s discipline on the ground will make that unlikely, and his pressure will force Fernandes to grapple from a more defensive position.

Continue Reading »
Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes
Nemkov vs. Johnson
Magomedov vs. Kelly
Ibragimov vs. Mokhonoana
Khavalov vs. Fernandes
The Prelims