Undefeated Khizriev returns to PFL after surviving five gunshot wounds

Timur Khizriev will end a year-long absence from competition at PFL Chicago on 16 October, when the undefeated featherweight champion rematches Gabriel Braga in a bout that could reshape the division’s title picture. The fight marks Khizriev’s first appearance since he defeated Brendan Loughnane to claim the 2024 PFL featherweight tournament crown.

Khizriev’s absence was no ordinary layoff. The Dagestani fighter was shot five times during an alleged robbery in his homeland, an attack serious enough to sideline him for more than twelve months. He returns with his perfect 18-0 record intact.

The matchup carries added weight as a rematch. Khizriev edged Braga by split decision in a tightly contested 2024 PFL tournament semifinal, a result that left questions unanswered. Braga, ranked fifth in the PFL featherweight standings, arrives in form — he picked up a unanimous decision over Cheyden Leialoha in Chicago back in April, making this his second appearance in the city in 2026.

Khizriev currently sits second in the PFL featherweight rankings, and a convincing win over a top-five opponent would strengthen any case for a title shot. Conversely, a Braga victory would represent one of the more significant upsets in the division’s recent history and thrust him into contention.

The wider PFL Chicago card is headlined by a women’s flyweight title rematch between Liz Carmouche and Jena Bishop. The card also features Alexandr Shabliy vs. Landry Ward, Denis Goltsov vs. Maxwell Djantou Nana, and Sarvarjon Khamidov vs. Rafael do Nascimento.