This June, the vibrant city of Dubai will pulsate with energy as the 971 Fighting Championship 2 takes center stage at the Coca-Cola Arena. Known for its dynamic atmosphere, this event promises to deliver an electrifying night of mixed martial arts that will captivate both avid fans and casual spectators alike.
Founded by UFC veteran Mounir Lazzez, 971FC has quickly become a cornerstone for mixed martial arts in the Middle East. The organization aims to spotlight Arab talent while also welcoming international prospects, creating a melting pot of fighting styles and cultures. The upcoming event on June 14 aligns perfectly with this vision, featuring a stacked card that showcases some of the best fighters in the region.
At the forefront of the event is the main event clash featuring the undefeated Muhammad Mokaev, boasting a record of 14-0 with one No Contest. This British-Russian phenom will square off against Kazakhstan’s Alisher Gabdullin, who holds a solid record of 15-4. A win for Mokaev would further cement his status as one of the rising stars in the flyweight division.
Fans will also be treated to an exhilarating co-main event that pits Khabib Nurmagomedov’s protégé, Saygid Izagakhmaev (22-2), against Pupanga Tresor of Congo (10-3). Both fighters are known for their explosive styles, promising a showdown that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
However, the excitement doesn’t stop with the main events. The undercard boasts a wealth of Arab fighters and UAE-based contenders eager to make their mark. Ahmed “The Prince” Fares (21-8) will return to the cage following an impressive first-round victory over Finland’s Jerry Kvarnstrom. Fares is set to face Colombia’s Eduardo Mora (9-6-2), who serves as a resident coach at the Abu Dhabi Martial Arts Academy. This matchup is expected to deliver fireworks as both fighters are known for their aggressive fighting styles.
Another intriguing bout features Elie “The Wolverine” Mansour (2-0), a Lebanese lightweight based in Dubai, who will face the experienced Georgian, Bondo Meskhi. Mansour’s striking and cage control have earned him a growing local fanbase, but he’ll need to rise to the challenge posed by Meskhi’s wrestling and relentless approach.
In a clash that highlights the competition between Middle Eastern talent and European grit, Yazan Jaber from Jordan faces England’s Grant Ogborne. Jaber is known for his sharp striking, while Ogborne brings an arsenal of boxing skills, making this matchup particularly compelling.
A potential brawl could unfold when Japhet Dequito from the Philippines goes toe-to-toe with Max Flynn, a fighter who trains in Dubai. Both athletes are known for their high-pressure styles and knockout power, setting the stage for an intense lightweight encounter.
In the featherweight division, Tunisia’s Maazri Ammar (2-1-1) will enter the ring against India’s Suraj Singh Patel (1-0), promising a confounding battle of contrasting styles—pressure versus precision. Meanwhile, Egypt’s Mohamed Salem (7-2-2), a former national champion, will clash with Poland’s Łukasz Szala, known for his wild but effective striking.
This event isn’t merely about the fights; it’s a celebration of the UAE’s burgeoning role as a global MMA hub. With its diverse roster of fighters, 971 Fighting Championship 2 embodies the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines martial arts.
Tickets for this highly anticipated night of battles are available at several outlets, including the Coca-Cola Arena, Platinum List, and Virgin Megastore, giving fans multiple ways to be part of this momentous occasion.
At A Glance
What: 971 Fighting Championship 2
When: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Where: Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai
Event time: Doors open at 6:30 PM, main event starts at 8:00 PM.
