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Movlid Khaybulaev won a PFL title in 2021. | 📷: PFL
The Professional Fighters League featherweight final will feature two former champions going head-to-head when Movlid Khaybulaev faces Jesus Pinedo in the 2025 PFL World Tournament 8 co-main event on Friday at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Anticipation abounds.
Khaybulaev, the 2021 PFL featherweight titlist, brings a 23-0-1 record with him to the cage. He sees his showdown with Pineda, another high-level champion, as an opportunity to prove himself as one of the best featherweights in the world.
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“Yes, this is definitely one of the best fights that I could have,” Khaybulaev told Sherdog.com. “To be honest, the previous fights I’ve had coming into this championship haven’t excited me that much. This one is really interesting to me, going up against a former champion in Pinedo.”
Having remained undefeated through 24 fights in his career, Khaybulaev credits his team and his preparation for all of the success he has enjoyed.
“I think it all comes down to consistency and the people I train with,” he said. “I have a great team to train with. You’ve got to always stay busy. You’ve got to always put in the work. That’s what I’ve done, and that’s why I am where I am.”
After already achieving championship glory, Khaybulaev admits he appreciates any opportunity to claim gold again. He does not take such chances for granted.
“When it comes to emotions of becoming a champion, that first time feeling, you can’t repeat it,” he said. “Obviously, that only comes once. When it comes to being nervous, I’m seasoned enough to just get up and do my job. It’s going to be a great opportunity, but nothing compares to the first time. I’ll always be prepared.”
Khaybulaev Knows What Awaits on Aug. 1 in the Finals
When it comes to his preparation for the tournament championship, Khaybulaev recognizes what Pinedo brings to the SmartCage, and he welcomes the opportunity to compete against him.
“The fact that he was already a champion is enough for me to know that I am going to have a good fight with him, but also, I have noticed that he is very confident,” Khaybulaev said. “When he wins, all his wins come with a high level of confidence, so he’s going to be a tough opponent because of his skill set and his confidence together.”
No matter what happens, Khaybulaev expects fireworks.
“For me, Atlantic City is a really familiar place, as I’ve fought there before,” he said. “The crowd there should definitely recognize me. I’m going to try and bring something new into the SmartCage, and when you have two former champions, it’s guaranteed to be a banger.”
This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com
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