Gadzhi Rabadanov wasted no time confirming his status as a top contender following his 2024 PFL championship win, achieving a spectacular knockout victory over former UFC competitor Marc Diakiese in an astonishing 32 seconds. This swift finish occurred during the co-main event of PFL 3 on Friday.
The bout unfolded at an incredible pace. Diakiese attempted to initiate the action with a kick, showcasing his striking prowess, but this strategy backfired dramatically. Rabadanov expertly caught the kick, swiftly transitioned to a takedown, and immediately began unleashing a barrage of powerful ground and pound strikes.
Rabadanov`s punches quickly found their mark, with a particularly brutal right hand connecting flush and rendering Diakiese unconscious. As Diakiese fell limply to the canvas, the referee promptly stepped in to halt the contest, ensuring the fighter`s safety.
Marc Diakiese remained on the mat for a brief period, requiring assistance before he was able to sit up on a stool at his corner.
The official time of the fight was indeed just 32 seconds, marking a truly vicious knockout for Gadzhi Rabadanov.
“This is sport. I stay respectful for all my opponents,” Rabadanov commented after his decisive 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,” he added, showing sportsmanship.
Now boasting an impressive overall winning streak of 11 fights, including five consecutive victories under the PFL banner, Rabadanov is widely considered a major favorite to clinch the current PFL lightweight tournament title. His next challenge in the semifinals is against Jay-Jay Wilson.
Percy Harlow