The groundbreaking multi-year partnership introduces a new era for MMA as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) plans to host major global events known as “Road to Dubai” and work on nurturing future UAE champion fighters.
Dubai’s first Champions Series World Title event is scheduled for Saturday, January 25, at the renowned Coca-Cola Arena. The event is set to feature a thrilling match-up between undefeated Bellator Lightweight World Champion Usman Nurmagomedov from Dagestan and the up-and-coming Irish contender, Paul Hughes.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – November 20, 2024: A major sporting milestone is on the horizon as Dubai gears up to host the highly-anticipated Champions Series World Title event. This event comes after a historic multi-year partnership signed among the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai Sports Council (DSC), and the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai’s City Walk will be the venue for this headline event. The main bout will see Usman Nurmagomedov, the undefeated Bellator Lightweight World Champion from Dagestan, attempt to defend his title against Ireland’s fierce competitor, Paul “Big News” Hughes, fresh off a career-defining victory over AJ McKee at PFL’s “Battle of the Giants.”
Through this innovative partnership, MMA champions and top talents from PFL will engage in title fights as Dubai establishes itself as a premier hub for elite MMA. Events under the Champions Series brand will now align with the “Road to Dubai,” culminating in the grand finale in this emerging fight capital. Additionally, the PFL aims to support Dubai’s MMA scene by providing rising Emirati fighters with a path to becoming future PFL Champions.
His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the Department of Economy & Tourism and the Professional Fighters League to foster talent in martial arts. “This agreement marks the beginning of creating a new generation of Emirati champions who will proudly represent the UAE in global sports forums,” he said, highlighting plans for various training programs and establishing an Emirati martial arts team.
Saeed Hareb further noted that the Dubai Sports Council would ensure robust support for the region’s first International Martial Arts Championship Series, “Road to Dubai.” This landmark event will elevate Dubai’s international sports profile and promote sports tourism, drawing a diverse audience and media attention internationally and locally.
The championship aims to captivate and inspire large audiences by diversifying Dubai’s sporting event offerings. Saeed Hareb emphasized that the event represents a collaborative model enhancing life quality and reinforcing Dubai’s global sports destination status.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment under DET, expressed delight in partnering with the Dubai Sports Council and PFL to elevate Dubai as a worldwide mixed martial arts hub. He highlighted that this partnership aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda’s goals to affirm the city’s stature as a notable global business and leisure destination, providing thrilling experiences for athletes and fans alike.
Pete Murray, PFL Chief Executive Officer, shared the league’s pride in pioneering major global MMA events in Dubai. He expressed excitement over partnering with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Sports Council for annual mega events and cultivating UAE champion fighters.
Usman Nurmagomedov expressed eagerness to face a worthy opponent, Paul Hughes, in what he termed an exciting challenge, being the first MMA main event hosted in Dubai. Paul Hughes anticipates his upcoming championship showdown with Usman, respecting his opponent yet confident in becoming the new champion come January.
PFL continues to lead in the MMA world with its unique sports-season format, offering fighters a comprehensive platform featuring regular seasons, playoffs, and championships. PFL boasts a roster with 30% of fighters in the top 25 of their weight class globally, comparable to the UFC. The league maintains a broad global vision, building the “Champions League of MMA,” with PFL Europe, PFL MENA, and other leagues in development.
The PFL Championships for the 2024 Global Season and the inaugural PFL MENA season are set for Friday, November 29, at King Saud University. The event, located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will be broadcast live in the U.S. on ESPN+.
Fans eager to witness the Champions Series at Coca-Cola Arena can register for a pre-sale to secure tickets on Thursday, 21 November from 8:00 am GST. Registration ends on Friday, 22 November at 7:00 am GST. The exclusive pre-sale commences at 9:00 am GST before general sales open later that day at 2:00 pm GST.
ABOUT DUBAI DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMY AND TOURISM (DET)
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is tasked with realizing Dubai’s ambition to be the world’s prime commercial, investment, and tourism destination. This mission aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the emirate’s economy size and solidify its global city ranking in the upcoming decade.
By championing a service-based, innovative economy, DET seeks to attract global talents, offer an exceptional business atmosphere, and foster productivity growth. DET aids Dubai’s vision to be the foremost destination for tourists and residents by showcasing its unique lifestyle and quality of life.
The DET stands as the primary entity in planning, managing, and marketing Dubai’s business and tourism sectors while overseeing all business, hotel, and travel licensing. It includes the Dubai Economic Development Corporation and various other tourism and commerce organizations like DFRE and DCT.
ABOUT DUBAI SPORTS COUNCIL
Founded on November 30, 2005, following a decree by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) is the central body for sports development in Dubai. Led by Chairman His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DSC orchestrates over 400 yearly events, fostering excellence, innovation, and physical activity.
DSC’s directive is to promote sports culture, nurture future talent, and support creativity, thereby enhancing Dubai as a haven of health, happiness, and vitality. The council facilitates international symposiums like the Dubai International Sports Conference and partners on numerous sports awards and initiatives.
ABOUT PROFESSIONAL FIGHTERS LEAGUE
Professional Fighters League (PFL) stands as a leading entity in global MMA and as the fastest-growing sports league. With varied live fight franchises, PFL delivers consistent year-round content. Established in 2018 and endorsed by substantial investors, PFL taps into a sizable global fanbase with diverse revenue avenues.
ABOUT COCA-COLA ARENA
Inaugurated in June 2019, Coca-Cola Arena has transformed the UAE and Middle East’s live entertainment scene. With year-round hosting capabilities and a 17,000-capacity, it positions Dubai on the global events map. The arena’s adaptable design suits diverse events and is conveniently situated in Dubai’s City Walk, highlighting its strategic accessibility.
Follow Coca-Cola Arena on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on event offerings.
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