Gadzhi Rabadanov claimed the 2024 PFL lightweight championship in a performance that left no doubt about his dominance. On Friday at the Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Rabadanov delivered a jaw-dropping third-round knockout against former Bellator lightweight champion Brent Primus, earning him the $1 million prize and cementing his place among the elite in the division.
Rabadanov wasted no time establishing control, showcasing a mix of grappling prowess and striking precision that repeatedly rocked Primus throughout the early rounds. While Primus displayed resilience and grit, the former Bellator champion couldn’t keep up with Rabadanov’s relentless pace.
The decisive moment came in the third round. Rabadanov unleashed a vicious combination of hooks that sent Primus crashing face-first to the canvas. A few follow-up punches sealed the deal, prompting the referee to step in and declare Rabadanov the winner by knockout.
This victory culminated an incredible journey for Rabadanov, who transitioned to the PFL in 2024 after a stint in Bellator. His path to the championship began with two decision victories that earned him a spot in the playoffs. However, Rabadanov truly found his form in the semi-finals, where he scored a knockout win over Michael Dufort to punch his ticket to the championship fight.
With his win over Primus, Rabadanov improved his professional record to an impressive 24-4-2. His transition from Bellator to the PFL has paid off financially and in terms of career milestones.
This result also highlights the PFL’s growing appeal as a destination for top-tier talent, with fighters like Rabadanov proving they can make a name for themselves in the promotion’s season-long format. As for Primus, his journey in the PFL has showcased his fighting spirit, but the night belonged to Rabadanov, who delivered a performance worthy of the championship.
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