Ali Akbar RosadySan Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena played host to a night of high-stakes mixed martial arts action on Saturday, as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) brought its latest event to Southern California. In the highly anticipated main event, former Bellator champion A.J. McKee asserted his dominance in the featherweight division, securing a decisive victory over the previously undefeated Salamat Isbulaev. McKee’s calculated performance marked a significant moment, not only extending his impressive run since returning to 145 pounds but also inflicting the first professional loss on Isbulaev’s record.
A.J. McKee, entering the bout with a professional record of 24 wins and 2 losses, has been on a strong trajectory since his re-establishment in the featherweight division. His return has been characterized by strategic brilliance and effective striking, exemplified by back-to-back victories over formidable opponents Adam Borics and Akhmed Magomedov. McKee’s experience and tactical prowess were evident throughout the five-round contest against Isbulaev, as he systematically dismantled his opponent’s game plan, controlling the pace and dictating exchanges. Observers noted McKee’s improved defensive grappling and crisp counter-striking, which repeatedly stifled Isbulaev’s aggressive advances. The judges ultimately rendered a unanimous decision in favor of McKee (50-45, 50-45, 49-46), a testament to his comprehensive control of the bout. This victory further solidifies McKee’s position as a top contender within the PFL featherweight landscape, hinting at future tournament aspirations and potential championship challenges.
Salamat Isbulaev, who carried an unblemished record of 10-0 into the cage, faced his toughest test to date against McKee. The Russian prospect had made a thunderous PFL debut earlier this year, dispatching veteran Jesus Pinedo via first-round knockout in February, immediately signaling his arrival as a force in the division. Despite his aggressive style and knockout power, Isbulaev struggled to find his rhythm against McKee’s elusive movement and defensive acumen. While he landed several significant strikes, he was unable to string together combinations or secure takedowns with enough consistency to sway the judges. The loss, though a setback, provides valuable experience for the young fighter, who will undoubtedly look to learn from the encounter and refine his approach for future challenges in the competitive PFL featherweight bracket.
The co-main event of the evening featured a compelling women’s flyweight clash between two decorated veterans, Liz Carmouche and Viviane Araujo. Carmouche, a former Bellator champion, the reigning 2025 PFL tournament winner, and a one-time UFC title challenger, brought an extensive and highly decorated resume (25-8) into the cage. Her opponent, Viviane Araujo (14-7), also a former UFC competitor, presented a significant challenge with her well-rounded skill set and aggressive striking.
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The bout between Carmouche and Araujo unfolded as a gritty, back-and-forth affair, characterized by fierce striking exchanges and strategic grappling. Carmouche, known for her relentless pressure and strong ground game, showcased her veteran savvy by weathering early storms from Araujo. Araujo, with her powerful Muay Thai background, landed several impactful kicks and punches in the opening rounds, demonstrating her intent to keep the fight standing. However, as the fight progressed, Carmouche’s superior conditioning and tactical adjustments began to pay dividends. She secured crucial takedowns in the later rounds, maintaining top control and landing effective ground and pound, which ultimately swayed the judges in her favor. Carmouche was awarded a unanimous decision victory (29-28, 29-28, 30-27), further cementing her status as a dominant force in the PFL’s women’s divisions and reinforcing her claim as a leading contender for future championships. The win adds another significant triumph to her already illustrious career, while Araujo, despite the loss, proved her resilience and continued to demonstrate why she remains a tough out for anyone in the division.
Further down the main card, the lightweight division saw Alexander Shabliy clash with Alfie Davis in a highly anticipated contest. Shabliy, known for his dynamic striking and aggressive style, delivered a performance that lived up to expectations. He pressured Davis from the outset, landing a series of powerful combinations that eventually led to a second-round TKO victory. The win propels Shabliy further up the lightweight rankings, making a strong case for a significant fight in the next PFL event. Alfie Davis, while showing flashes of his technical striking, was ultimately overwhelmed by Shabliy’s power and relentless pace.
In the heavyweight division, Abraham Bably squared off against Rob Wilkinson. Bably, a rising prospect, demonstrated his formidable power and improved technique by securing a dominant first-round knockout over the veteran Wilkinson. The swift finish sent a clear message to the rest of the heavyweight roster, indicating Bably’s readiness for stiffer competition. Wilkinson, a former light heavyweight contender, struggled to find his footing against the younger, more explosive Bably.
The preliminary card, broadcast live on ESPN+, also featured several compelling matchups and notable performances. Khasan Magomedsharipov, a highly touted featherweight prospect, continued his ascent with a submission victory over Joshua Weems in the second round. Magomedsharipov showcased his elite grappling skills, patiently working for the rear-naked choke after an initial scramble. This win adds another impressive finish to his burgeoning record and underscores his potential as a future star.
In the women’s flyweight division, Ariane Lipski da Silva faced Jena Bishop. Lipski da Silva, known for her exciting striking, engaged in a competitive three-round battle with Bishop. Ultimately, Lipski da Silva’s superior volume and effective combinations earned her a split decision victory, highlighting her resilience and offensive capabilities.
The bantamweight division saw Justin Wetzell take on Sarvarjon Khamidov. Khamidov, an aggressive grappler, secured a dominant unanimous decision win, controlling Wetzell on the mat for the majority of the fight and showcasing his strong wrestling pedigree.
Gamid Khizriev defeated Lorenzo Parente by unanimous decision in a gritty middleweight contest, while Shannon Clark scored a TKO victory over Ilara Joanne in the first round of their women’s strawweight bout. The opening fight of the night saw Cobey Fehr secure a unanimous decision win over Daniel Bzdigian in a preliminary lightweight clash.
The PFL San Diego event delivered an evening of memorable fights, with A.J. McKee’s main event triumph standing out as a significant highlight. The results have set the stage for intriguing developments in multiple weight classes as the PFL season progresses, with fighters like McKee and Carmouche solidifying their positions as top contenders, while new talents continue to emerge from the preliminary ranks.
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