PFL: Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah “The Reaper” Al-Qahtani made Professional Fighters League (PFL) history when he walked into the SmartCage against Lamar Brown at PFL 6 back in July.
That night in Atlanta, 25-year old who trains out of KHK MMA became the first fighter from Saudi Arabia to compete in the PFL, and he made sure to leave a lasting impression in his PFL debut.
Al-Qahtani needed just 95 seconds to put his opponent away, winning by rear naked choke submission in the opening round.
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It was a proud moment for Al-Qahtani, who looks to follow in the footsteps other Middle Eastern talents — like Jordan’s Jarrah Al-Silawi — who have found success in the PFL.
This coming August, Al-Qahtani has the opportunity to build on his successful debut when he drops down to the featherweight division and faces American David Zeiner in the preliminary card of PFL 9. Being the final PFL Playoffs card, it can be expected that more eyes will be tuned in on that card, and more eyes will get to see emerging talent like Al-Qahtani.
During the lead-up to his PFL debut, Al-Qahtani spoke about what it takes to be successful in the sport of MMA.
“In this sport, you need to work so hard. You need to put something in your mind and then work, just work, work, work,” he said. “You need to focus on your goal. You need to be good at what you want.”
Prior to his arrival in the PFL, Al-Qahtani already had a bit of success, compiling a solid 5-1 professional record, which included an impressive run with Middle East-based promotion BRAVE Combat Federation.
Unlike a number of Middle Eastern talents who have jumped to the PFL however, Al-Qahtani has yet to capture a championship, and that’s something that he would ultimately like to achieve.
“I’d love to be a champion. It’s something in your heart, in your brain,” he said.
Being the first representative from his nation on a massive global stage like the PFL, Al-Qahtani has the full support of his team and his coaches.
“Abdullah is the first Saudi fighter with the PFL, so we’re all excited. We all support him,” said Ali Alqaisi, Al-Qahtani’s coach. “We train hard this time for this fight, it’s a big opportunity to fight with the PFL.”
While Al-Qahtani isn’t part of this season’s million-dollar roster, a win at PFL 9 could all but secure him his place on the roster next season, which moves him closer to his goal of becoming champion.
While Al-Qahtani has a long way to go, being able to compete on the PFL is already a big step, and he’s already becoming a source of influence for fellow Middle Eastern fighters.
“All of the new generation are looking to him and he’s influenced so many people around him,” Alqaisi said.
The future is bright for Al-Qahtani in the PFL, and a world championship could very well be within reach.
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