Latest news with #971FC
Khaleej Times
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: First Arab UFC fighter on a mission to redefine MMA in Mena region
Blades of dazzling laser lights sliced through the darkness as AC/DC's iconic rock anthem 'Thunderstruck' blasted from towering speakers, shaking the Coca-Cola Arena to its core and igniting the crowd like a bolt of electricity. In the middle of the jam-packed and supercharged Dubai arena, the Octagon stood like an ancient gladiator's coliseum - the heart of 971 Fighting Championship's triumphant return. In its centre, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) history was waiting to be written on a night bristling with anticipation and energy. It was a major leap from the promotion's modest debut at The Agenda in 2023 as over 6,000 screaming fans sat on the edge of their seats. This wasn't just an MMA fight night — it was a spectacle. For Mounir Lazzez, a UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) veteran, Arab MMA pioneer, and the man behind 971 FC, it was a defining moment and the start of something much bigger. 'I'm absolutely blown away by the support we received,' said Lazzez, riding the adrenaline of the crowd's energy. 'The atmosphere was electric from the first fight to the final bell. Every single fighter gave it their all. And all the support we received felt overwhelming. We worked hard for this. I couldn't be more proud.' Building a platform Lazzez insists 971 FC is more than just another MMA event to join the likes of BRAVE CF or UAE Warriors; it's a movement born in the UAE, with ambitions to reshape the combat sports scene across the Middle East and beyond. 'This is not just a business,' Lazzez said with conviction. 'We're not doing this for profit. This is about legacy. We are a promotion made by a fighter, for the fighters from this region and out into the world.' At the heart of 971 FC is an opportunity, especially for fighters who call the UAE and Mena region home — a platform built to elevate Arab talent onto the global stage. 'My highlight was seeing local fighters compete at home, on a world-class stage,' he said. 'They don't need to travel abroad anymore. We've built something in their own backyard, with high-quality production and international broadcasters — this is where they belong. This is where they share their dreams.' Not Just a Fight Night 971 FC's uniqueness lies not just in its matchups, but in its showmanship. The second event wasn't just a series of fights but an immersive experience. 'We're not your traditional MMA show,' Lazzez explained. 'We mix sport with entertainment. This time, we brought not just some of the best Arab and international fighters, but dancers and hip hop legend Lloyd Banks to help turn the night into a full-scale entertainment spectacle.' 'We've tried to create a new level. We want people to feel something when they come to 971.' The results speak for themselves. According to Lazzez, 971 FC - 2 garnered over 150 million views across Europe, with traction from the Middle East and Mena region, Canada, Australia, Kazakhstan, and beyond. Global dreams, local roots A proud Tunisian and Arab trailblazer who has called Dubai his home for over ten years, Lazzez knows what it takes to compete on the world's biggest stage, like the UFC or PFL. Now, he wants to ensure the next generation of fighters from the region has even more access to his sport with the help of expert coaching at centres like the 971 FC Academy. Nicknamed 'The Sniper,' he boasts an impressive professional MMA record of 11 wins with just 3 losses, including 8 knockouts and an over 70 per cent finishing rate. He earned a stunning Fight of the Night performance in his 2020 UFC debut, securing a memorable win by defeating Abdul Razak Alhassan at UFC Fight Night: Kattar vs. Ige, held at Fight Island in Abu Dhabi. On that night in 2020, Lazzez made history when he became the first fighter born and raised in an Arab country and trained by Arab coaches to compete in the UFC. Before joining the UFC, Lazzez claimed the Desert Force welterweight title in 2015 and competed successfully across major Middle East promotions. 'We've already revealed superstars,' he said of 971 FC - 2. 'They're now making headlines across the world. The feedback has been insane, I've received thousands of comments and crazy statistics. I think we're catching the attention of fans, the media, and major broadcasters.' Powerhouse night in Dubai Meanwhile, at the Coca-Cola Arena, 971 FC - 2 delivered a night that firmly established the promotion as a powerhouse in the regional MMA scene. With 11 finishes in 14 electrifying bouts, a groundbreaking live knockout bonus, and a stellar lineup of both Arab and international fighters, the event raised the bar for combat sports in the Middle East. The main event saw undefeated Dagestan sensation Muhammad Mokaev maintain his flawless record, overpowering Brazil's Thomas Assis with relentless pressure and sharp control to claim a unanimous decision victory after three grueling rounds. Not to be outdone, Russian newcomer Raimond Magomedaliev marked his promotional debut with a commanding submission win, locking in a kimura on Rio de Janeiro's Andrey Augusto Ferreira in the second round to thunderous applause. A Mid-fight bonus like no other The night reached a fever pitch during the explosive battle between welterweights Namo Fazil from Kurdistan and Chechnya's Yakub Suleimanov. After two intense rounds, veteran referee Grant Waterman surprised fans by announcing a $20,000 knockout bonus- offered live by 971 FC's own promoter Lazzez. Rising to the challenge, Fazil delivered a devastating TKO in the third round, not only securing victory but also making history with what is believed to be the first-ever live KO bonus awarded mid-fight in MMA history. Explosive finishes and star power Former Bellator standout James Gallagher from Ireland returned with a sharp second-round armbar submission victory over Brazil's Fabricio Soares, showcasing his elite grappling skills and reaffirming his status as a fan favourite. The night was packed with thrilling finishes, featuring dominant performances from Amin Ayoub (France), Ahmed Faress (Egypt), Mohamed Salem (Egypt), Adrian Sanchez (South Africa), and Junior Karanta (Sweden). The event also drew MMA influencers and regional stars such as Iranian heavyweight Pouya Rahmani, Lebanon's Mohammad Karaki, and Jordanian MMA standout Ali Al Qaisi, who lent their expertise to the live commentary team. When asked if 971 FC could produce a world-class MMA champion from the region, promoter and former UFC fighter Mounir Lazzez was unequivocal: 'Absolutely. We are already on the path.' His commitment to growth and fighter-first values is what is driving the promotion's meteoric rise. Lazzez is not just building a promotion - he's shaping a legacy for Arab fighters — one punch, one fight at a time. Fast Facts - 971 FC - 2 Founded by: Mounir Lazzez Based in: Dubai Debut: May 2023 at The Agenda
The National
15-06-2025
- Sport
- The National
Muhammad Mokaev plots UFC return after Dubai victory: 'I am the only one who can beat Pantoja'
A foot injury towards the end of the first round failed to slow down Muhammad Mokaev as he completed a unanimous decision victory over Brazil's Thomas Assis in the 971 Fighting Championship, stretching his perfect MMA career record to 15-0. Despite him hobbling back to his corner at the end of opening session, the British-Dagestani flyweight used his superior grappling skills to prevail in the main event of an entertaining 14-fight card at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on Saturday. 'I feel amazing with the result and in front of an awesome crowd on my first appearance in Dubai,' Mokaev, 24, told The National. 'I twisted my foot at the end of the first round. So, basically, I just did what I could. The important thing is I am still undefeated.' Assis, 31, entered the cage with a career record of 12-2 (win/loss) and was a late replacement for the Kazakh Alisher Gabdullin, who was originally slated to meet Mokaev. 'He was a great opponent. He came with a 12-fight winning streak,' added Mokaev. 'The 971 FC president Mounir Lazzez has done an amazing job to make this fight happen in Dubai, which is an international venue for many world-class sporting events. It's also easier for my people to come and support me. 'Dubai was on my bucket list and I have now ticked it. I would like to thank all my fans in the UAE. It doesn't matter where I fight, they're coming and supporting me. I will never forget your support and [I will] bring the [UFC] belt to Dubai one day.' Mokaev was a rising star of the UFC, going unbeaten (7-0) in the promotion, but his contract wasn't renewed because of issues away from fight night. UFC supremo Dana White said Mokaev wasn't retained 'for many different reasons', implying outside-the-cage problems. 'My time in the UFC was great even though something didn't go as I wanted. Still, Dana [White], Hunter [Campbell] and Mick [Parkin] gave me the opportunity to show my skills on the biggest MMA platforms in the world,' added Mokaev. 'All this situation, not being re-signed, made me sit and re-watch my circle and see stuff outside and it made me grow. I rather face this adversity than getting cut by losing. I'm still young and if I keep staying focused, more doors will open. 'I don't like to talk more about it because it can go against my career. Whatever happened, I look past it and want to just learn from the situation and move on to not make the same mistakes I have already done.' Mokaev has left his prospects of returning to the UFC up to the organisers, but will continue to take on all the opportunities to fight in any promotions that might come his way. 'I just want to go out and compete everywhere I can,' he said when asked if he was expecting a return to the UFC. 'I believe I am the only one who can beat Pantoja in that division. I always train and am ready to go, maybe I just cut down on burgers and fizzy drinks, the rest I do the same wherever I am, in the UFC, Brave CF, or 971 FC. 'My main goal is to become the best in the world in my weight category. Right now, I face some adversity in my career but winning the [UFC] belt will taste much better. 'I came to the UK as a refugee. I just thank God that I have home and food, the rest is just part of the journey.'
Gulf Today
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Mokaev faces Assis as 971FC gears up for blockbuster fight card
971FC, the UAE's fastest-growing fight promotion, takes the Coca-Cola Arena by storm on Saturday, for a landmark night of international combat sports and entertainment. With 14 explosive bouts, elite fighters in the main and co-main events, and a headline live performance by hip-hop legend Lloyd Banks, this is more than a fight night – it's a cultural event. This event is officially sold out, marking it as one of the most anticipated sporting spectacles of the year. The spotlight shines bright as Muhammad Mokaev faces off against Thomas Assis in the main event, a thrilling bantamweight bout set to headline an action-packed fight night. In a major shakeup, undefeated British-Dagestani phenom Mokaev (14-0) faces off against Brazilian submission expert with an 11-fight win streak Assis (12-2). A former IMMAF world champion and UFC veteran, Mokaev is known for his relentless pressure and Olympic-level wrestling. Assis, who hails from Coari in Brazil and trains out of RCT Coari, is riding a win streak and brings a gritty, aggressive grappling style that promises a chess match on the ground. Russian powerhouse and sambo technician Raimond Magomedaliev (10-2) returns to action, looking to impose his dominant top game against seasoned Brazilian striker Andrey 'Mineiro' Augusto (17-9-1) in the co-main event. Augusto is known for his durability and knockout power and will look to test the Russian's chin and composure under fire.
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Arab and UAE-based warriors set to battle at 971 Fighting Championship 2 in Dubai
All eyes will be on Dubai this June as 971 Fighting Championship 2 explodes into the Coca-Cola Arena, bringing a high-octane night of mixed martial arts action to the heart of the UAE. Founded by UFC veteran Mounir Lazzez, 971FC is fast becoming a flagship platform for showcasing Arab talent and international prospects in the Middle East. The upcoming event on June 14 is no exception, with a stacked card headlined by undefeated phenom Muhammad Mokaev (14-0, 1 NC), and the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov's protégé Saygid Izagakhmaev (22-2). In the main event, Briton-based Russian athlete Mokaev faces Kazakhstan's Alisher Gabdullin (15-4) in a high-stakes flyweight clash while in the co-main, Izagakhmaev meets Congo's Pupanga Tresor (10-3) in a welterweight bout that's expected to deliver fireworks. But it's not just the main events drawing attention — the undercard is packed with Arab fighters and UAE-based contenders ready to leave their mark: Ahmed 'The Prince' Fares (21-8) of Egypt returns to the 971FC cage following a highlight-reel standing guillotine win against Finland's Jerry Kvarnstrom in the first round at 2:33 on May 4, 2024. A fan favourite across the region, Fares will battle Colombia's Eduardo Mora (9-6-2), who fights out of the Abu Dhabi Martial Arts Academy (ADMA) as a resident coach. Tough Test Elie 'The Wolverine' Mansour (2-0), a Dubai-based Lebanese lightweight, steps up for his toughest test yet against Georgia's Bondo Meskhi, who has demonstrated a strong foundation in wrestling and a physical, pressure-heavy fighting style. Mansour's sharp striking and cage control have earned him a strong local fan following — now he'll look to remain unbeaten on what he calls home soil. Yazan Jaber, representing Jordan, brings clean striking and a calm, composed style to his bout with England's Grant Ogborne who brings his trademark grit and boxing skills to the cage. This matchup is a showcase of rising Middle Eastern talent vs European grit. A brawl could be on the cards when Japhet Dequito, a promising fighter from Manila, Philippines faces UK's Max Flynn, who lives and trains in Dubai. Both lightweights are known for pressure and power. High-Octane Showdow In the featherweight ranks Tunisia's Maazri Ammar (2-1-1) enters a high-octane showdown with India's Suraj Singh Patel (1-0) in a matchup of pressure versus precision. Meanwhile, Egypt's Mohamed Salem (7-2-2), a former national champ with deep regional roots, clashes with Poland's Łukasz Szala — a wild, rangy welterweight with knockout power. From seasoned veterans to regional hopefuls, 971 Fighting Championship 2 is more than just a fight night — it's a celebration of the UAE's role as a growing epicentre for global MMA, blending local pride with an international flavour. Tickets are now on sale at the Coca-Cola Arena, Platinum List, and Virgin Megastore. At A Glance When: Saturday, June 14, 2025, Where: Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.
USA Today
07-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Muhammad Mokaev makes MMA return in 971 FC's June main event in Dubai
Muhammad Mokaev makes MMA return in 971 FC's June main event in Dubai Muhammad Mokaev has remained active since parting ways with the UFC. After leaving the UFC, Mokaev has competed in grappling, MMA, and Karate Combat. In his return to BRAVE FC, the undefeated flyweight submitted Joevincent So in the first round this past December. He then scored a second-round knockout over Bolat Zamanbekov at Karate Combat 54 this past Friday. Now, Mokaev (13-0) will look to continue his run in MMA when he takes on Kazakhstan's Alisher Gabdullin (15-4) in a bantamweight bout, which headlines 971 Fighting Championship June 14 at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, promotion officials announced Tuesday. Mokaev went 7-0 in the UFC from March 2022 to July 2024, and was on the cusp of title contention before the promotion decided to part ways with him.
