971 FC Adds Undefeated Stars to Dubai Fight Card
DUBAI, UAE — Four high-stakes bouts, including two featuring undefeated fighters, have been added to the already-loaded June 14 lineup of 971 Fighting Championship (971 FC), promising one of the most explosive nights of MMA in the Middle East this year. The fights, set at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, include regional prospects, global veterans,

By Staff Writer

DUBAI, UAE — Four high-stakes bouts, including two featuring undefeated fighters, have been added to the already-loaded June 14 lineup of 971 Fighting Championship (971 FC), promising one of the most explosive nights of MMA in the Middle East this year.
The fights, set at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, include regional prospects, global veterans, and undefeated rising stars putting their spotless records on the line.
Headlining the event is flyweight sensation Muhammad Mokaev (14-0, 1 NC), who returns to action against Alisher Gabdullin (15-4), a dangerous finisher with a reputation for stopping hype trains.
In the co-main event, Saygid Izagakhmaev (22-2), a longtime disciple of MMA icon Khabib Nurmagomedov, will battle Congo’s Pupanga Tresor (10-3) in a lightweight contest with international implications.
Sulimanov vs. Fazil: Undefeated vs. Knockout Artist
Chechen standout Yakub Sulimanov, a training partner of UFC star Khamzat Chimaev, brings his relentless pace, sharp striking, and perfect record into a critical moment in his young career.
He faces Kurdistan’s Namo “Saif” Fazil, a knockout artist known for his fearless style and brutal finishing ability.
“Both men fight like there’s no tomorrow,” said 971 FC matchmaker Rami Abadi. “This could steal the show.”
With both fighters unbeaten and explosive, the bout is expected to end decisively, with major implications for the winner’s rise in the regional rankings.
Hammami vs. Jacob: Regional Star Meets Iron Grit
Wisem “Pantera” Hammami, the Tunisian-Italian striker based in Dubai, steps into the cage carrying the weight of local hopes.
A former regional champion with elite stand-up skills, Hammami aims to re-establish himself as a star in the booming Arab MMA scene.
He squares off with Arthur Jacob, a gritty Polish brawler who impressed fans in his debut at 971FC 1 and is eager to spoil the party.
“This fight is about more than records,” said Hammami. “It’s about who belongs in the spotlight.”
Akhtamov vs. Sanchez: Streak vs. Chaos
Uzbekistan’s Mirafzal Akhtamov (9-0-1) enters with an undefeated record and a reputation for precision striking, ring IQ, and fan-friendly performances.
His opponent, Adrian “Rayo” Sanchez (7-5) from South Africa, is a wildcard — a veteran of K-1, Muay Thai, and BJJ with a finish-heavy style and the will to fight through adversity.
“Sanchez may be the underdog, but he’s dangerous,” said analyst Ayman ElFikky. “Akhtamov will have to be flawless.”
Akhtamov’s ability to stay composed under pressure will be tested against Sanchez’s aggression and unpredictability.
Karanta vs. Thompson: Power vs. Experience
Sweden’s Junior Karanta makes his promotional debut as part of a new wave of European heavyweights making noise on the global scene.
Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 113 kilograms, Karanta is a powerhouse with speed and youth on his side.
He faces British MMA veteran Oli “Big Shot” Thompson, a former Britain’s Strongest Man with nearly 40 pro bouts under his belt.
“This is a classic heavyweight showdown — youth vs. wisdom, power vs. experience,” said 971 FC CEO Ahmed Al Khouri. “It only takes one punch.”
Thompson, now 45, still possesses fight-ending power and deep tactical knowledge, making this a compelling clash of generations.
971 FC: Building Middle East’s MMA Empire
With its June card now set at 14 fights, 971 FC continues its rapid rise as a dominant force in the region’s MMA landscape.
Combining elite production, diverse international talent, and authentic storytelling, the promotion is bridging the gap between local prospects and global recognition.
Other confirmed fights include:
- Kane Mousah vs. Amaury Junior
- James Gallagher vs. Fabricio Soares
Gallagher, the brash Irish star and former Bellator bantamweight contender, will look to reassert himself after a brief layoff, while Mousah brings his veteran savvy to the cage against Brazilian powerhouse Junior.
With the card’s depth and star power, fans can expect fireworks from start to finish.
The event, taking place at Dubai’s iconic Coca-Cola Arena, is expected to draw thousands of fans and global attention.
This marks the third major event for 971 FC, which has quickly earned a reputation for elevating Middle Eastern MMA and providing fighters with a high-profile stage to launch international careers.
“971 FC is not just putting on fights; we’re building careers and making stars,” said Al Khouri.
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