DUBAI, UAE – 14 June 2025 – The stage is set for a landmark night in Middle Eastern combat sports. 971 Fighting Championship (971FC) roars back into action this summer with a mega showdown at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai — a night destined to shake the regional and international MMA scene.
Muhammad Mokaev Headlines 971 FC in Dubai
Headlining the fight card is Undefeated phenom Muhammad “The Punisher” Mokaev (14-0, 1 NC) who will put his perfect record on the line against Kazakhstan’s rising force, Alisher Gabdullin (15-4), in a high-stakes showdown filled with tension, ambition, and opportunity.
Mokaev, born in Dagestan and raised in Manchester, has stormed the MMA world with his Olympic-caliber wrestling, relentless pressure, and elite-level grappling. Known for his fight IQ and dynamic transitions, he stands as one of the most promising prospects in the sport — and on June 14, he aims to take another step toward global stardom.
Standing across from him is Alisher Gabdullin — a polished fighter with deep roots in Kazakhstan’s fierce combat sports tradition. Combining precise striking with a battle-hardened wrestling base, Gabdullin carries 15 wins into this fight and the hunger to carve his name into
In addition to the headliner, the main card includes:
Saygid Izagakhmaev vs. Pupanga Tresor in the co-main event.
Saygid Izagakhmaev (22-2), a long time protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov, returns to the Middle East aiming to continue his rise. Trained under the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Izagakhmaev is known for his dominant grappling, positional control, and fight IQ.
He faces Pupanga “Fireboy” Tresor, a Congolese striker based in the United Kingdom, who brings an aggressive style and heavy hands to the matchup.
Kane Mousah vs. Amaury Junior
Lightweight veteran Kane “The Danger” Mousah meets Brazil’s Amaury “The Predator” Junior in a matchup expected to deliver fireworks.
Mousah, who has competed in major organizations globally and now represents Dubai’s growing fight community, looks to reassert himself as a contender.
Junior enters the bout with a wealth of experience and a reputation for pushing the pace in high-action fights.
James Gallagher vs. Fabricio Soares
James “The Strabanimal” Gallagher, one of Ireland’s most recognizable MMA figures, will make his first appearance under the 971FC banner.
A product of SBG Ireland, Gallagher is known for his submission game and brash persona.
He faces Brazil’s Fabricio “Saci” Soares, a dangerous finisher who has ended 13 of his 14 victories inside the distance.
971 FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP: BUILDING HEROES, NOT JUST EVENTS
Founded by MMA pioneer and former UFC fighter Mounir Lazzez, 971 Fighting Championship is on a mission to redefine sports entertainment in the region.
Rooted in the core values of martial arts — respect, courage, integrity, and humility — 971FC is not merely promoting fights. It is telling the stories of athletes, elevating grassroots talent, and building a legacy that will inspire generations.
After a sold-out debut at The Agenda last year, 971FC now steps onto an even grander stage at Coca-Cola Arena, delivering world-class production, elite competition, and storytelling that resonates.
FOUNDER’S VISION: MOUNIR LAZZEZ
Transitioning from competitor to promoter, Lazzez brings first-hand knowledge of the fighter’s journey — the physical demands, the mental toll, and the lack of institutional support often faced in emerging markets.
“971FC is committed to more than just hosting events — we’re about building generations and contributing to the growth of MMA and martial arts,” says Mounir Lazzez, founder of 971FC.
“We are humbled to play a role in shaping this industry, providing opportunities for rising athletes to compete and offering elite fighters a platform to do what they do best.”
He continued:
” The main event between Mokaev vs Gabdullin will be an absolute masterclass! Two incredible fighters, each with their own remarkable journey, in one arena where history will be made. June 14th will be a night to remember.”
After a sold-out debut at The Agenda last year, 971FC now steps onto an even grander stage at Coca-Cola Arena, delivering world-class production, elite competition, and storytelling that resonates.
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