PFL MENA 2 in Jeddah: Fighters ready for combat in Saudi Arabia's ‘birthplace of MMA'
Three Saudi Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters are ready to take the ring as Season 2 of PFL MENA kicks off on May 9 in Jeddah – the 'birthplace of MMA' in the Kingdom.
The highly-anticipated event, held in partnership with Jeddah Season, will take place at Jeddah's Onyx Arena.
After conquering the Saudi Games 2024 and collecting titles across boxing, sambo, and sanda, Abdulaziz Bin Moammar will return to the cage in his hometown for his PFL debut.
'Jeddah is the birthplace of MMA in Saudi Arabia, and its crowd is knowledgeable and passionate. This tournament in Jeddah will be special, as the city has hosted many major events before,' he told Al Arabiya English.
Meanwhile, Saudi MMA pioneer Ahmed Makki is set to step into the ring for one final time.
He said that ending his professional career in Jeddah – his hometown – only felt right.
'I chose to have my final professional fight in my hometown, Jeddah, in front of my people and the Saudi audience.
Participating in PFL in Jeddah is a great addition to my career after competing and succeeding in both international and local events,' he told Al Arabiya English.
'I'm happy to end my journey in a championship hosted by my own city. It's time to pass the torch to the new generation—there are many Saudi talents capable of shining on the global stage,' he added.
With an IMMAF World Silver Medal and 21 amateur wins (13 finishes), Saudi Arabia's Malik Basahel will bring championship pedigree to his professional debut.
'I'm preparing for my first professional fight after 25 amateur bouts, where I won 21 times. This motivates me to perform at my best and enter the professional scene with strength,' he said.
'Every fighter has a different style, but the most important thing is inner focus and the ability to react instantly to the opponent's moves,' he emphasized.
Following a successful inaugural season in 2024, the second edition of PFL MENA aims to further expand MMA in the Middle East by highlighting local talent and providing regional fighters a clear pathway to international recognition and success, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) said in a statement shared with Al Arabiya English.
Speaking to Al Arabiya English recently, PFL MENA's General Manager Jerome Mazet said: 'Jeddah Season's trust in PFL is a testament to the incredible success of PFL MENA Season 1 and the growing impact of our league in the region.'
The event will be available for viewing on STARZPLAY, following PFL's multi-year partnership with the leading subscription video-on-demand service in the Middle East and North Africa region.
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