Fresh off his 2024 PFL championship win, Gadzhi Rabadanov continued his dominant form by securing a rapid knockout victory over former UFC competitor Marc Diakiese. The impressive finish took place merely 32 seconds into their co-main event contest at PFL 3 on Friday night.
The bout unfolded at lightning speed. Diakiese attempted to employ his striking, throwing a kick towards the Russian fighter. However, this move backfired spectacularly as Rabadanov successfully caught the kick. This immediately led to a quick takedown, after which Rabadanov wasted no time in unleashing a series of heavy ground and pound strikes.
Rabadanov`s powerful punches quickly found their mark. A particularly devastating right hand connected, rendering Diakiese unconscious and causing him to fall limp onto the canvas. The referee recognized Diakiese`s state and swiftly stepped in to wave off the fight.
Diakiese remained on the ground recovering for a brief period before he was able to get back up and move to a stool.
The entire fight was officially stopped at just 32 seconds, marking a decisive knockout win for Rabadanov.
“This is sport. I stay respectful for all my opponents,” Rabadanov stated in his post-fight interview following the win. “Of course, I have more motivation. I have to prove to people I deserve to be here. I prepared for this. It worked.
“He has a family. He has his fans and I understand this guy. I don’t want to break somebody. I just want to win.”
With this victory, Rabadanov extends his remarkable winning streak to 11 consecutive fights overall, including five straight victories within the PFL organization. He is now widely considered a strong favorite to win the current PFL lightweight tournament. His next challenge will be against Jay-Jay Wilson in the semifinals.
