Kevin Lee is confirmed to make his debut with the PFL promotion, immediately targeting a significant challenge.
The former interim UFC lightweight title contender has faced a challenging period marked by inactivity and inconsistent performances. However, he is making a return to a major organization to compete against the winner of the 2024 PFL tournament, Gadzhi Rabadanov, next month. He is stepping into the tournament`s semi-finals.
Lee is replacing the injured former Bellator fighter Jay-Jay Wilson, putting himself in a prime position for a potential title shot. His immediate challenge is Rabadanov, known as one of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s top lightweight trainees.
Kevin Lee Confirms PFL Debut Opponent
In a press release issued today, the PFL officially announced Kevin Lee`s return to major MMA competition, confirming a multi-fight agreement. The rapid scheduling of his debut surprised many, with his first bout set for June 20 in Wichita, Kansas.
Announcing the news on his Instagram page, Lee posted a photo with a short statement: “It’s official, I’m stepping into the PFL lightweight tournament against the #1 ranked guy June 20th.”
Lee, recognized for his wrestling skills, will step in for Jay-Jay Wilson to face the 2024 champion Rabadanov in the lightweight division`s main event for the night. The winner of this semi-final bout will advance to face the winner of the other semi-final between Brent Primus and Alfie Davis.
Lee`s most recent fight was in September under the Lights Out Promotions banner, where he secured a submission victory against Thiago Oliveira in under two minutes. A scheduled Bare Knuckle MMA appearance in November was canceled. Now, he faces a significant challenge in Rabadanov, considered by many to be among the top lightweights globally.
PFL Tournament Path Offers Kevin Lee Opportunity
A victory over Rabadanov would immediately position Lee as a strong contender to win the entire tournament. Rabadanov decisively defeated Primus in the previous year`s final, while Davis is still establishing himself at this elite level. Consequently, the winner of the Lee vs. Rabadanov bout will be in a dominant position.
Winning the tournament offers Lee a substantial prize of $500,000, in addition to his standard fight earnings. It would also make him a prime candidate to challenge for Usman Nurmagomedov’s world title in the Champions Series. Usman Nurmagomedov has been seeking a new opponent since his intense fight with Paul Hughes in January.
While many fans hope for a rematch between Nurmagomedov and Hughes, it appears Usman is more interested in facing a new contender. If Lee can overcome Rabadanov, his teammate, and win the tournament, it would create an immediate compelling storyline and solidify his position as a top challenger based on merit.
