Gadzhi Rabadanov (26-4-2) is in a new tournament this year, with the same goal ahead of him at PFL Charlotte: pick up the win, the prize money and the title.
“I’m very excited, but same goal,” he said ahead of his PFL Lightweight World Tournament final with Alfie Davis. “Don’t like his face, and I’ll do this.”
What sort of statement will he make should he follow up his 2024 PFL Global tournament win by being victorious in the World Tournament? “If I take this belt again, it will be a big message to the MMA world, who I am. Who is Gadzhi Rabadanov. For my legacy, the legacy of my team, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s school,” stated Rabadanov, speaking during the PFL Charlotte media day. “It will be very good. I can’t wait.”
Speaking of his team, Rabadanov admitted that at times, he sees them more than anyone. “Sometimes I see these guys more than my family. It’s crazy. A lot of time together.”
It’s been a wild ride for Rabadanov, who at one point was pondering retirement. Then, the Dagestani caught on in Bellator, and found greater success after that promotion was acquired by the PFL.
“It’s crazy. Five, six years ago. Now, what a position I have. I want to say again for everybody who’s going to watch, never give up. Never give up. All the world’s yours if you believe.”
Opponent Alfie Davis says he has a knee ready if Rabadanov tries to take him down. That left Gadzhi Rabadanov incredulous. “When’s the last time he knocks out somebody with a knee? What he’s talking about? He’s crazy. I smash him.”
As to why his fighting style is superior to Davis, Rabadanov said that “I’m a universal fighter. I can dictate my rules in this fight, you know? What’s he do? Nothing. I smash this guy.”
Watch Gadzhi Rabadanov’s PFL Charlotte media day appearance above. The event takes place this Friday, August 15, 2025 at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina.
