Movlid Khaybulaev (24-0-1, 1 NC MMA, 10-0-1, 1 NC PFL) entered last spring’s PFL World Tournament with a singular goal in mind: Run through the field and take the 2025 PFL Featherweight Championship. Although Khaybulaev’s goal was accomplished, the glory was ill-fated.
Victories on April 3 by way of split decision over Jeremy Kennedy and on June 12 via unanimous decision versus Tae Kyun Kim gave way to an Aug. 1 date at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City for the PFL Featherweight Championship against Jesus Pinedo.
Five rounds (or less) of action was all that stood between Movlid Khaybulaev and the championship belt.