Gadzhi Rabadanov and the Pursuit of Perfection

Already having won the 2024 Professional Fighters League lightweight championship, Gadzhi Rabadanov did not have much on-paper incentive to enter the world tournament—he could have waited for his next challenger. However, he wants to be recognized as the best in the world.

Currently riding an 11-fight winning streak, Rabadanov opened his latest campaign with a 32-second finish of veteran Marc Diakiese. He will now face former Ultimate Fighting Championship title challenger Kevin Lee when their lightweight semifinal headlines PFL 2025 World Tournament 6 on Friday at Intrust Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas. Solely focused on becoming the best lightweight fighter in the sport, Rabadanov comes off as direct—not just about beating Lee but about making sure the world knows where he stands. When asked why he chose to compete in this year’s tournament instead of waiting for a challenger, Rabadanov pointed to a more intimate pursuit.

“There is no limit for perfection,” he told Sherdog.com. “There is always something that can be improved.”

Recognized as one of the top fighters in his division across promotions, Rabadanov takes pride not only in being among the best 155-pounders in the world but in doing so while representing the PFL.

“PFL is one of the biggest promotions in the world,” he said. “To be here as the lightweight champion means a lot to me. It means that I’m one of the best right now, and this company is one of the best, too. I’m one of the best lightweight fighters in the world.”

Rabadanov sees his matchup with Lee as a chance to validate his global standing.

“He’s a good opponent,” Rabadanov said. “He’s tough. He has a good background and is one more former UFC fighter that I’m facing where I can show people my level. Once I beat this guy, people are going to understand who I am.”

Fighters only get one shot! Watch the Semifinals of the PFL World Tournament LIVE Friday, June 20 at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN+

Rabadanov has spoken openly about his kill-or-be-killed mentality—a sentiment his opponent claims to share. He wants to see if Lee can follow through on such promises.

“We will see,” Rabadanov said. “If he really believes in what he said, we’ll see in the cage. When I talk about this mentality, I talk real. No matter what my opponents say before the fight, I don’t pay any attention. They can say whatever they want, but when we come in the cage, it all changes for them.”

Focused and committed to his craft, Rabadanov carries a desire to leave a lasting mark on the sport.

“I want to make a big legacy for myself,” he said. “I want to be one of the best lightweight fighters in the world. I put in a lot of work to be able to achieve that.”

Gadzhi Rabadanov likes his chances for tomorrow's Main Event.#PFLWorldTournament pic.twitter.com/ecWiBSK5WU

— PFL (@PFLMMA) June 19, 2025