Alex Chizov is set to face the highly-ranked Gadzhi Rabadanov in the co-main event of PFL Sioux Falls on May 2nd. This bout represents a significant career milestone for Chizov, marking his toughest challenge to date. Reflecting on his journey, Chizov expressed his profound gratitude for the opportunity to compete on such a grand stage.
“For me, coming from Latvia, a small country where MMA isn’t widely known, reaching the US and fighting in one of the world’s premier leagues against a top-tier opponent is a dream come true,” Chizov shared. “If you had told me this 10 years ago, I would have thought you were mistaken. I’m truly enjoying every moment of this process.”
Chizov also spoke about the unique challenges of forging a path in MMA from a nation with few high-level fighters to emulate. “When I started, there wasn’t a prominent international fighter from my country whose success I could point to for inspiration. I feel like I’m paving the way for others, which is both a significant privilege and twice as difficult,” he stated.
Recognized by many as Latvia’s top MMA fighter, Chizov feels a sense of national pride and responsibility. He believes his journey can inspire others from smaller nations. “The pressure is always there, but pressure is good; it keeps me sharp,” he said. “I want to show people that anything is possible, regardless of where you’re from – be it England, America, Brazil, or small Latvia. With the right attitude, hard work, and self-belief, you can achieve great things.”
Chizov’s impressive resume includes multiple Latvian combat sambo titles, regional MMA belts, and a PFL Europe title. He sees this fight as a crucial step towards a PFL world title shot. “This is a tremendous opportunity to fight in the US for the first time, in a co-main event against the number two ranked fighter,” Chizov remarked. “It’s incredible how quickly things can change in sports; my life has transformed in just one year. A year ago, I was watching fighters like Gadzhi, thinking it would be years before I could face them. Now, I’m fighting him in a co-main event. I’m truly grateful.”
Alex Chizov Unfazed by Khabib’s Protege, Gadzhi Rabadanov, Ahead of PFL Showdown
Khabib Nurmagomedov has often lauded Gadzhi Rabadanov, who trains with the former UFC champion’s camp. When asked about facing Rabadanov, a fighter under “The Eagle’s” tutelage, Chizov remained unperturbed.
“My strongest asset is my mentality. I don’t care that he’s from Dagestan or Khabib’s team,” Chizov asserted. “We all know Khabib’s team produces elite fighters. Many people overthink fighting members of that team, perhaps imagining they’re fighting Khabib or Islam Makhachev. I simply don’t. I see it as a privilege to fight one of their top fighters. My goal since joining the PFL has been to fight the best, win, and become a champion.”
“People often get intimidated by the ‘Dagestani’ or ‘Khabib team’ label, thinking they’re not on that level. But I don’t dwell on that. I’m fighting another man, just like me. He’s skilled and experienced, and so am I. These factors don’t bother me. I believe in myself and my hard work, and that’s all that matters.”
Chizov embraces the challenge, stating, “I’ve never sought an easy path to the top. This is my 17th professional fight, and I’ve never turned down an opponent. To truly be the best, you can’t lie to yourself. You can’t beat average opponents and believe you’re legitimate. When you’re alone, you know the truth. Fighting Rabadanov is an opportunity to prove to myself, my country, and the world that I belong among the caliber of fighters like him. It’s a great opportunity, nothing more.”