A prominent young talent in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is currently facing a significant personal battle following a violent incident.
On Tuesday, Russian media outlets reported that PFL featherweight champion Timur Khizriev sustained five gunshot wounds from rubber bullets in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia. While his condition is stable, Khizriev suffered injuries to his shoulder, hand, and chest and is undergoing surgical procedures.
Reports indicate that Khizriev was ambushed by two assailants in the courtyard of a residential building as he was exiting his vehicle. Law enforcement managed to apprehend one suspect, but two others reportedly fled the scene. Eyewitnesses recounted that the attackers yelled insults at Khizriev’s family as they escaped.
Footage of the incident is also said to exist, circulating online.
Khizriev`s management team has confirmed the occurrence of the attack to MMA Fighting, stating that the fighter is recovering in the hospital and is not in life-threatening danger.
The PFL issued a statement on Wednesday addressing the incident, acknowledging their awareness of the situation and extending their well wishes to one of their rising stars.
“PFL is aware of the situation concerning Timur Khizriev, and remain in close touch with his representatives. Our thoughts are with him and his family during this time.”
The 29-year-old Khizriev boasts an undefeated professional record of 18-0. Before joining the PFL in 2024, he competed in Bellator. In his PFL tenure, he secured three decision victories to reach the tournament finals. Khizriev then claimed the featherweight title by defeating Brendan Loughnane via unanimous decision at the PFL Championships.
