PFL Dubai MMA Match Preview: Amru Magomedov (9-0-0) vs. Kolton Englund (15-4-0)
PFL kicks off its 2026 season with a stacked card in Dubai, featuring the promotional debut of highly touted Dagestani prospect Amru Magomedov against veteran Kolton Englund in a lightweight prelim bout. Magomedov, a protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov known for his dominant grappling and finishing ability, enters as a massive favorite looking to extend his unbeaten streak. Englund, riding a six-fight win streak with a mix of knockouts and decisions, aims to play spoiler with his striking and experience against rising talents. This three-round clash adds depth to a card headlined by Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Alfie Davis for the lightweight title.
Location: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (indoor arena with capacity around 17,000; known for hosting major MMA and entertainment events).
Prelims at 9:00 a.m. ET (6:00 a.m. PT / 6:00 p.m. local time in Dubai); Main Card at 12:00 p.m. ET (9:00 a.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. local). The Magomedov vs. Englund fight is on the prelims, expected around 10:00-11:00 a.m. ET.
Broadcast: ESPN App (U.S.); Starzplay (MENA region).
Injury Report
No injuries have been reported for either fighter entering the bout. Magomedov had a minor leg issue in a 2025 post-fight celebration but has been cleared and active since. Englund has no recent setbacks, with his last notable withdrawal due to injury dating back to 2019. Both are confirmed healthy per promotional updates and pre-fight medicals.
Fighter Matchups
This lightweight (155 lbs) prelim bout pits Magomedov’s elite wrestling and submission game against Englund’s striking versatility and takedown defense. Key elements:
Grappling vs. Striking: Magomedov averages 5.2 takedowns per 15 minutes with an 80% success rate, finishing 78% of his wins by submission (7 of 9). Englund defends 75% of takedowns and prefers stand-up, landing 4.8 significant strikes per minute with knockout power (6 KO/TKO wins).
Physical Attributes: Magomedov (5’11”, 71″ reach, age 26) has a slight height and reach edge over Englund (5’10”, 69″ reach, age 31), aiding in clinch work. Magomedov’s youth and explosiveness could overwhelm, while Englund’s experience (19 pro fights) might help in scrambles.
Experience and Style: Magomedov, undefeated with all finishes, trains under Khabib Nurmagomedov, emphasizing ground control. Englund, with a 6-3 record against wrestlers, mixes decisions and finishes but hasn’t faced top-tier grapplers like Magomedov.
Intangibles: Magomedov’s Dagestani style could lead to early dominance, but Englund’s resilience (never submitted) might force a decision. Venue in Dubai favors Magomedov with regional support.
Recent Form
Amru Magomedov (9-0): Perfect record with all finishes. A Khabib protégé, he’s dominated regional circuits like UAE Warriors. Form: W-W-W-W-W (grappling-heavy, quick subs/KOs).
Kolton Englund (15-4): On a six-fight win streak after early career ups and downs. Husband of UFC fighter Rayanne dos Santos, he’s versatile but untested against elite prospects. Form: W-W-W-W-W-W (mix of TKOs, subs, decisions).
| Fighter | Pro Record | Finish Rate | Last 5 Fights | Sig. Strikes Landed/Min | Takedowns/15 Min | Age |
| Amru Magomedov | 9-0 | 100% (7 Subs, 2 KO/TKO) | W-KO (da Silva), W-Sub (Kabdulla), W-Sub (Jumaev), W-Sub (Oliveira), W-KO (Others) | 3.2 | 5.2 | 26 |
| Kolton Englund | 15-4 | 60% (6 KO/TKO, 3 Subs) | W-TKO (Minus), W-TKO (Dunn), W-Dec (Compton), W-Dec (Whitney), W-Sub (Oliveira) | 4.8 | 1.5 | 31 |
Fight History
No prior head-to-head meetings; this is their first encounter. Magomedov is 3-0 against strikers similar to Englund, all by submission. Englund is 2-2 vs. grapplers in his last four such matchups, with wins via decision but losses by TKO.
FIGHT ODDS
Amru Magomedov – 800
Kolton Englund + 550
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 6, 2026
