Timur Khizriev – Gabriel Braga

Fighters' momentum

Fight announced by the PFL as the co-main event of PFL Chicago, at featherweight, in Chicago, on October 16, 2026. The October 15 weigh-in had Braga at 145.8 lb and Khizriev at 145.4 lb.

No replacement is indicated in the lineup published after the weigh-in. The official format, 3 or 5 rounds, is unconfirmed; the exact fight time remains to be confirmed.

Head-to-head

On August 23, 2024, in a 3-round PFL semifinal, Timur Khizriev defeated Gabriel Braga by split decision. This precedent shows that Khizriev's wrestling and control can work, but the split decision highlights a close fight and does not guarantee the same result after Khizriev's absence and Braga's continued activity.

Preparation and physical condition

Khizriev returns after a long layoff reportedly linked by the PFL to an attack that required surgery and an extended recovery. His current medical status, an active injury, a difficult weight cut, or any functional limitation have not been established.

However, both fighters made the announced limit at the October 15 weigh-in.

Context & news

Khizriev is expected to seek takedowns, cage pressure, body control, and dominant ground sequences; his previous 5-round championship fight win over Brendan Loughnane supports his experience over the distance, without proving that this rematch will last 25 minutes. Braga will look to maintain distance and intercept takedowns, particularly with his right hand; his recent activity may help him, but proves neither a level advantage nor better conditioning.

The favorable scenario for Khizriev is a decision win through accumulated control. The favorable scenario for Braga is a KO/TKO by punishing takedown attempts, or a decision if he maintains space and defends the takedowns sufficiently.

Matchup and opponent

Confirmed matchup: Timur Khizriev vs Gabriel Braga, PFL promotion, featherweight division. No replacement appears after the published weigh-in. The official 3- or 5-round format has not yet been confirmed.