Get ready, MMA fans! 971 Fighting Championship is set to make a thrilling return to Dubai on June 14, bringing a massive 14-fight lineup to the iconic Coca-Cola Arena. Headlining the event is the undefeated phenom Muhammad Mokaev (14-0, 1 NC), who will put his perfect record on the line against the tough Alisher Gabdullin (15-4) in a highly anticipated main event.
In the co-main event, Saygid Izagakhmaev (22-2), a long-time protégé of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, is scheduled to face Pupanga Tresor (10-3) in a compelling lightweight clash. This event marks the second show for 971FC following its successful, sold-out debut in 2024, signalling the promotion’s growing presence in the Middle East MMA scene.
While the full card is still being finalized, 971FC has confirmed several exciting matchups for the main portion of the event.
Main and Co-Main Events Highlight Top Talent
The main event features the highly touted Muhammad Mokaev, known for his elite wrestling and relentless pressure. His opponent, Alisher Gabdullin, will look to hand Mokaev his first professional loss and make a major statement in the division.
In the co-main event, Saygid Izagakhmaev, carrying the torch from the esteemed Nurmagomedov camp, aims to continue his impressive rise. Trained under the late, great Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Izagakhmaev is celebrated for his dominant grappling, suffocating positional control, and high fight IQ. He faces a significant test in Pupanga “Fireboy” Tresor, a dynamic Congolese striker based in the United Kingdom. Tresor is known for his aggressive style and heavy hands, promising a classic grappler-striker dynamic in the cage.
Additional Confirmed Main Card Bouts
Beyond the top two fights, 971FC has also announced two other intriguing main-card matchups:
- Kane Mousah vs. Amaury Junior: Lightweight veteran Kane “The Danger” Mousah is set to meet Brazil’s Amaury “The Predator” Junior. This bout is expected to deliver fireworks, pitting Mousah, who represents Dubai’s growing fight community and has competed globally, against Junior, an experienced fighter known for his high-paced, action-packed fights.
- James Gallagher vs. Fabricio Soares: One of Ireland’s most recognizable MMA figures, James “The Strabanimal” Gallagher, will make his first appearance under the 971FC banner. A product of the renowned SBG Ireland gym, Gallagher is known for his dangerous submission game and confident persona. He faces Brazil’s Fabricio “Saci” Soares, a dangerous finisher with an impressive record of stopping opponents, having ended 13 of his 14 victories inside the distance.
Confirmed Fight Card (Subject to Change):
- Muhammad Mokaev vs. Alisher Gabdullin (Main Event)
- Saygid Izagakhmaev vs. Pupanga Tresor (Co-Main Event)
- Kane Mousah vs. Amaury Junior
- James Gallagher vs. Fabricio Soares
971 Fighting Championship: Building the Future of Middle East MMA
Founded by former UFC welterweight Mounir Lazzez, 971 Fighting Championship was established with a clear vision: to showcase the core martial arts values of respect, courage, integrity, and humility, while simultaneously providing a global platform for both regional and international talent.
“June 14th will be a night to remember,” said Lazzez. “Not just because of the main event, but because of the depth of talent we’re bringing to Coca-Cola Arena. We’re committed to building a new generation of heroes for the sport.”
Following its successful debut event, 971FC’s move to the larger Coca-Cola Arena for its second show clearly signals the promotion’s ambition to become a major player on the global MMA stage and a key platform for fighters in the Middle East. The full 14-bout card promises an action-packed night, with additional matchups expected to be announced in the coming days.
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