Gadzhi Rabadanov is heading to the 2024 PFL finals after landing a crushing knockout blow.
On the main card of 2024 PFL Playoffs 2 at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Fla., Rabadanov (23-4-2) connected with a vicious left hook on Michael Dufort (13-6), leading to a knockout at 1:51 of Round 2. The fight was a lightweight semifinal bout.
After a competitive first round, Dufort came out looking for takedowns, which played into Rabadanov’s strengths. Rabadanov shook off a couple of takedown attempts and then floored Dufort with a left hook. Rabadanov immediately swarmed with follow-up strikes until the referee stopped the fight.
Check out video of the finish below (via X):
Gadzhi Rabadanov LANDS FLUSH! HE IS GOING TO THE FINALS!
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— PFL (@PFLMMA) August 17, 2024
With the result, the $1 million lightweight finals are set.
Rabadanov will face Brent Primus, who defeated Clay Collard by unanimous decision in the fight prior.
During his post-fight interview, Rabadanov shouted out Khabib Nurmagomedov, who was shown on the broadcast on a video call with Rabadanov’s corner.
Rabadanov extends his current winning streak to nine, including three wins under the PFL banner.
Up-to-the-minute results of 2024 PFL Playoffs 2 include:
- Gadzhi Rabadanov def. Michael Dufort via knockout (punches) – Round 2, 1:51
- Brent Primus def. Clay Collard via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
- Biaggio Ali Walsh def. Brian Stapleton via knockout (punch) – Round 1, 0:55
- Danny Sabatello vs. Lazaro Dayron ruled a majority draw (29-27, 28-28, 28-28)
- Mads Burnell def. Elvin Espinoza via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
- Thad Jean def. Chris Brown via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
- Jordan Oliver def. Braydon Akeo via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
- Michelle Montague def. Marilia Morais via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 1, 1:44
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for 2024 PFL Playoffs 2.
