Gadzhi Kadiomarovich Rabadanov Bio
Gadzhi Kadiomarovich Rabadanov is a Russian mixed martial artist competing in the Lightweight division of the Professional Fighters League (PFL). He became the 2024 PFL Lightweight Champion and has been a professional fighter since 2013. Rabadanov has also competed in Bellator MMA, Fight Nights Global, and Gorilla Fighting Championship (GFC), where he held the Lightweight title.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 1, 1993, in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, Rabadanov is of Dargin ethnicity. During his childhood, he was active in football and freestyle wrestling before switching to combat sambo at age 17 under the guidance of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. He later combined his training with studies at the Russian Legal Academy, earning a legal degree with honors. After his third year of college, Rabadanov dedicated himself fully to martial arts, competing professionally in MMA and grappling.
Path to MMA
Rabadanov began his professional MMA career in 2013, debuting at Octagon MMA Warriors 13 with a submission win. He competed in various local Russian promotions before making a mark internationally. He won the WMMAA Lightweight World Championship in 2015, setting a record for the fastest finish in amateur MMA history with a 17-second submission. Rabadanov also earned a bronze medal at the 2014 World Combat Sambo Championship and was awarded the title of International Master of Sports in MMA.
Gadzhi Rabadanov Career
Early Career (2013–2016)
Rabadanov’s early professional years involved competing across regional Russian promotions, where he built a solid record. His notable achievements include winning the WMMAA Lightweight Championship and establishing himself as a promising talent in combat sambo and MMA. In 2016, he joined Fight Nights Global, competing in six events and gaining valuable experience against higher-level competition.
Bellator MMA Breakthrough (2021–2023)
Rabadanov signed with Bellator MMA in 2021, making an immediate impact by knocking out Daniel Carey in his debut. He followed with unanimous decision victories over Jay-Jay Wilson, Bobby King, Koji Takeda, and Pieter Buist. His performances showcased his well-rounded skills and ability to compete at an international level. Rabadanov fought with a southpaw stance and demonstrated strategic striking and grappling throughout his Bellator tenure.
Professional Fighters League Era (2024–Present)
In 2024, Rabadanov joined the PFL Lightweight division and quickly rose to prominence. He started the season with unanimous decision wins over Solomon Renfro and unbeaten prospect Elvin Espinoza. Rabadanov then knocked out Michael Dufort in the semifinals and secured the 2024 PFL Lightweight Championship by knocking out Brent Primus in the final, earning the $1 million prize. In 2025, he continued competing in the PFL, winning quarterfinal and semifinal bouts by knockout and TKO before losing the final to Alfie Davis by unanimous decision.
Driving Style and Strengths
Rabadanov fights from a southpaw stance and is known for his striking power and grappling versatility. His background in combat sambo and wrestling provides a strong foundation for submissions and ground control. He adapts well to different opponents and utilizes strategic pacing, combining technical striking with effective takedown defense.
Notable Events and Milestones
Rabadanov holds the record for the fastest finish in amateur MMA history with a 17-second submission. He became the 2024 PFL Lightweight Champion with a knockout victory in the final and has notable wins over former UFC fighters and international contenders. His career highlights include championship titles in WMMAA, GFC, and PFL.
Gadzhi Rabadanov Career Wins
Rabadanov has accumulated 26 professional wins out of 32 fights, with 2 wins by knockout, 1 by submission, and 2 by decision. His victories span multiple promotions, including Bellator MMA, Fight Nights Global, GFC, and PFL, reflecting his consistent success across different competitive environments.
PFL Highlights
Rabadanov’s PFL career is marked by his 2024 Lightweight Championship win. He secured multiple knockout and decision victories during the season, demonstrating dominance in the lightweight division. His 2024 championship win earned him a $1 million prize and solidified his status as a top lightweight contender.
Other Wins & Performances
Before joining PFL, Rabadanov won the GFC Lightweight Championship and competed successfully in Bellator MMA with several unanimous decision victories. His amateur career includes a WMMAA Lightweight World Championship and a bronze medal at the World Combat Sambo Championship.
Gadzhi Rabadanov Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Rabadanov’s family background are limited, but he is of Dargin ethnicity from Dagestan, a region known for producing accomplished combat athletes. His early mentorship under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was influential in his development as a martial artist.
Personal Life
Rabadanov currently resides in Chelyabinsk, Russia. Public information about his personal relationships or children is not available.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 PFL Lightweight Tournament, Rabadanov continued to display his knockout power and technical skills. He won his quarterfinal bout against Marc Diakiese by first-round knockout and defeated Kevin Lee by first-round TKO in the semifinals after a late replacement. Rabadanov reached the final but lost to Alfie Davis by unanimous decision. His performances reflect strong form and competitiveness, with potential for future championship contention.