Dakota Ditcheva's Dominant Victory Secures Flyweight Contender Status in PFL World Championship Finals
ICARO Media Group
**Dakota Ditcheva Shines in PFL World Championship Victory**
In an electrifying night at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dakota Ditcheva delivered a stunning performance in the PFL World Championship finals, cementing her status as a premier flyweight contender. The undefeated English fighter demonstrated her prowess by decisively defeating Taila Santos and claiming the $1 million grand prize.
Ditcheva, now boasting an impeccable 15-0 record, overwhelmed Santos with a relentless barrage of knees, kicks, and precision punches. The skill disparity was evident from the start, and Ditcheva didn't let up, eventually ending the match in spectacular fashion. A powerful standing elbow followed by a left hand to the liver floored the Brazilian challenger at 4:41 in the second round, showcasing Ditcheva's striking brutality.
The 26-year-old, a standout product of PFL Europe’s prospect system, has had a flawless 2024 season, finishing all four of her fights with highlight-reel knockouts. "I've been telling you. I was trying to tell you," Ditcheva exulted. "Maybe [they'll listen now]. I'm sure they'll still be moaning about me, but I'll just keep proving them wrong."
Not to be outdone, the night's main event saw Timur Khizriev of Dagestan dominate former PFL champion Brendan Loughnane to win the featherweight title and its $1 million prize. Khizriev, now 18-0, showcased superior boxing and wrestling skills, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46. His victories over seasoned fighters like Brett Johns, Enrique Barzola, Gabriel Alves Braga, and Loughnane signify a successful debut season for Khizriev.
Another highlight of the night was Dovlet Yagshimuradov's quick knockout victory over 2023 PFL light heavyweight champion Impa Kasanganay. The Turkmenistani fighter sealed his triumph in just 58 seconds with a formidable punch and combination, claiming his $1 million prize and making history as the first major MMA champion from his country.
Shamil Musaev also made headlines with a dramatic win in the welterweight division, knocking out previously unbeaten Magomed Umulatov at 1:44 of Round 3. Musaev's perfect 2024 season, marked by knockout wins over Logan Storley, Murad Ramazanov, and Umulatov, bolsters his reputation as one of MMA's top welterweights outside the UFC.
Gadzhi Rabadanov continued the streak of impressive performances by defeating Brent Primus in the lightweight division. Utilizing a blend of wrestling and striking, Rabadanov secured his victory in the third round, extending his unbeaten run to 11-0 under the Bellator and PFL banners.
Rounding out the main card, heavyweight veteran Denis Goltsov achieved his long-awaited PFL championship glory by submitting Oleg Popov in the first round. After multiple playoff runs that ended in disappointment, Goltsov claimed his $1 million prize and set his sights on a future clash with PFL heavyweight star Francis Ngannou.
The PFL World Championship showcased a night of remarkable talent and captivating finishes, underscoring the league's reputation for high-stakes, high-reward competition.