After a two-year hiatus, fan-favourite Artem Lobov is making a highly anticipated return to combat sports. He is set to face his longtime rival, Zubaira Tukhugov, in a catchweight bout at a PFL event in Dubai on October 3, 2025. This matchup is a culmination of a seven-year-old feud that originated from a notorious altercation involving Lobov and members of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s team. This electrifying clash has been years in the making and promises to be a dramatic showdown between two fighters with a contentious history.
Artem Lobov’s Comeback Story
Artem Lobov’s return to the cage is a significant event for both him and his dedicated fanbase. Known for his “Russian Hammer” striking style and unyielding toughness, Lobov last competed professionally in 2021. After retiring from the sport, his life took a turn with a well-publicised lawsuit against Conor McGregor over a financial dispute regarding the Proper No. 12 whiskey brand. Now, with a new focus, Lobov is ready to settle an old score. The PFL event provides him with the perfect stage to seek revenge and re-establish himself as a formidable force in combat sports.
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The Deep-Seated Rivalry Between Lobov and Tukhugov
The feud between Lobov and Tukhugov dates back to 2018. The rivalry began with an intense confrontation during a UFC media event. This incident escalated into the infamous bus attack by Conor McGregor and ultimately led to a planned UFC fight between Lobov and Tukhugov being cancelled due to Tukhugov’s suspension for his involvement in a post-fight brawl at UFC 229. This unfinished business has simmered for years, creating immense anticipation for their upcoming clash.
“7 years in the making,” Lobov wrote on social media. “Time to get revenge!!”
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Tukhugov’s Return and PFL’s Strategic Matchup
On the other side, Zubaira Tukhugov is also making his return after a period of inactivity. His last professional fight was a split-decision loss to Elves Brener in 2023. Tukhugov is a skilled grappler with a solid striking game, and he will be a significant challenge for Lobov. However, the lengthy layoff and the pressure of this high-stakes rivalry could be a factor.
This matchup is a strategic move for the Professional Fighters League (PFL). By booking a fight with such a compelling backstory and two well-known names, the PFL aims to draw a larger audience and increase its visibility in the competitive MMA landscape. The event’s location in Dubai adds another layer of international appeal to this highly anticipated bout.
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| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Fighters | Artem Lobov vs. Zubaira Tukhugov |
| Event | PFL event in Dubai |
| Date | October 3, 2025 |
| Weight Class | Catchweight of 165 pounds |
| Historical Context | Rivalry began in 2018 during a confrontation at a UFC event. |
| Lobov’s Last Fight | Last competed in 2021 before a brief retirement. |
| Tukhugov’s Last Fight | Last fought in 2023, losing a decision to Elves Brener. |
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When is the Artem Lobov vs. Zubaira Tukhugov fight?
The fight is scheduled for October 3, 2025, at a PFL event in Dubai.
What is the history behind their rivalry?
The rivalry dates back to 2018 when a confrontation involving Lobov and members of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s team, including Tukhugov, led to a scheduled UFC fight that was ultimately canceled.
What weight class will the fight be at?
The bout will take place at a catchweight of 165 pounds.
Is this Lobov’s first fight since retirement?
Yes, this will be Artem Lobov’s first professional fight since he retired from combat sports in 2021.
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