RIYADH: PFL MENA may still be in its inaugural season, but it has already given mixed martial arts fighters from the Middle East a platform to showcase their talents on to global audiences. 

One of the key driving forces behind the success of the Professional Fighters League’s newest international league is its Vice President of Fighter Operations Gustavo Firmino. Having previously worked with Bahrain-based BRAVE CF, Firmino knows a thing or two about putting on the best fights for Middle Eastern fans, and he is continued to do that with PFL MENA. 

On Sept. 20, PFL MENA enters its postseason, raising the stakes for 16 of the best fighters in the region, as bantamweights, featherweights, lightweights, and welterweights take to the SmartCage at Boulevard Riyadh City to fight for an opportunity to become PFL MENA champion. 

Ahead of the PFL MENA playoffs, Firmino spoke about the talent in the Middle East, what it takes to break through into the PFL’s million-dollar global tournament, and some of the must-see matches on this Friday’s card. 

“The level of skill and talent we’ve seen from fighters in the Middle East and North Africa has been nothing short of remarkable,” he said. “This only strengthens our commitment to investing in this region, helping to develop and discover more young talents with immense potential to shine on the global stage.”

While a PFL MENA championship will certainly put a fighter on the map, it does not necessarily guarantee a spot in the PFL’s million-dollar global tournament, which features the best fighters from all corners of the globe. 

“It is important to note that winning the Professional Fighters League in the Middle East and North Africa region does not automatically guarantee a spot in the global championship. The level of competition on the international stage is incredibly high, and only the fighters who consistently perform at the top level, showing excellence and determination, will be considered for the global competition.”

Still, the doors are open for Middle Eastern fighters to break through and compete on the global stage, as PFL MENA semifinalists like Abdullah Al-Qahtani and Jarrah Al-Selawe have done previously. 

“The key factors that will determine a fighter’s participation in international tournaments are high performance and consistency. It’s not just about winning titles; it's about proving yourself as a world-class athlete over time, through dedication and elite-level results,” Firmino added. 

As for the fights on this Friday’s PFL MENA 3 card, Firmino highlighted some must-see matchups including the main event and the co-main event. 

The night’s marquee matchup will feature Saudi Arabia’s own Al-Qahtani taking on Jordan’s Abdulrahman Alyhassat in a featherweight semifinal contest. 

“The upcoming fight between Abdullah Al-Qahtani and Abdulrahman Al-Hayassat is incredibly difficult to predict,” said Firmino. “Both fighters have shown exceptional abilities, and their chances are evenly matched, with a 50/50 split. Each has demonstrated dominance in their previous bouts, making this one of the most closely contested fights of the tournament.”

In the co-headlining bout, Jordan’s Al-Selawe looks to add another title to his already impressive resume as he faces Egypt’s Omar El Dafrawy. 

“The excitement surrounding the semi-final clash between Al-Selawe and El Dafrawy is enormous,” Firmino exclaimed. “El Dafrawi brings youthful energy and determination, while Al-Selawe is one of the most seasoned fighters in the region.

“This matchup is a highly anticipated bout, and all eyes will be on these two exceptional athletes,” he added. 

Firmino also talked about the other 170-pound semifinal fight featuring Mohammad Alaqraa, a protege of Khabib Nurmagomedov, and multiple-time champion Amir Fazil. 

“Mohammad is Khabib’s protege, he trains at Khabib’s gym in Dagestan, he’s undefeated at 6-0 with 5 wins by knockout, but he’s facing a multiple-time Wushu Sanda Champion and a current UAE Warriors champion in Fazil. It’s the moment of truth for him. Is he ready for the next level?”