How Did Nurmagomedov Submit Briton Davis with an Unorthodox Choke?

Usman Nurmagomedov showcased his dominance in the PFL lightweight division by defeating Alfie Davis and successfully defending his title, improving his unbeaten record to 22 fights. The bout ended with Nurmagomedov submitting Davis in the third round using a unique arm triangle choke, highlighting his grappling prowess and strategic approach throughout the fight.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In a highly anticipated title match held in Dubai, Usman Nurmagomedov outclassed Alfie Davis to retain his PFL lightweight championship. The fight, marked by Nurmagomedov's tactical fighting style and superior grappling skills, underscored his status as one of the best fighters outside the UFC. Nurmagomedov's victory solidifies his reign in the division and leaves fans speculating about his next opponent.

Key takeaways

Usman Nurmagomedov remains unbeaten with a record of 22 wins and one no-contest.
The fight showcased Nurmagomedov's grappling superiority and strategic acumen.
Alfie Davis, despite being a strong contender, struggled to match Nurmagomedov's intensity and skill.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to Nurmagomedov's latest title defence can be traced back to key moments in his career:

August 2022: Alfie Davis wins the PFL lightweight tournament, earning a title shot.
October 2022: Nurmagomedov successfully defends his title against Paul Hughes.
September 2023: Nurmagomedov faces Davis in Dubai, successfully defending his title for the fifth time.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Nurmagomedov's victory over Davis not only retains his title but also extends his unbeaten streak. The fight was characterised by his strategic approach, which included relentless pressure and tactical grappling, leading to a third-round submission.

What was already established

Prior to this match, Nurmagomedov was already seen as a leading figure in the PFL and a contender for future opportunities in larger promotions. His grappling skills have been well-documented, and his past performances have established him as a formidable opponent.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK fans and households, Nurmagomedov's victory is a point of pride, showcasing British talent in the mixed martial arts scene. The match attracted attention not only for the fight itself but also for the broader implications it holds for British MMA, especially with the prominence of fighters like Alfie Davis.

Businesses and jobs

The fight's visibility may also impact local businesses, particularly those involved in sports, hospitality, and events. Nurmagomedov's success can stimulate interest in MMA-related activities, potentially leading to increased attendance at local gyms and events.

Policy and regulation

As MMA continues to gain popularity, there may be discussions regarding regulations and support for fighters. Increased public interest could prompt regulatory bodies to enhance safety measures and support for athletes in the sport.

Numbers that matter

22: Nurmagomedov's current unbeaten record, showcasing his dominance in the lightweight division.
5: Number of title defences Nurmagomedov has successfully completed.
1: The only no-contest in Nurmagomedov's record, indicating his overall success rate.

Definitions and jargon buster

PFL: Professional Fighters League, a mixed martial arts organisation known for its unique seasonal format.
Submission: A technique in MMA where one fighter forces their opponent to give up, usually by applying a choke or joint lock.
Arm triangle choke: A grappling technique that involves using the arm to create a chokehold on the opponent, often leading to submission.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans will be watching closely to see who Nurmagomedov's next opponent will be, with potential rematches or new contenders on the horizon.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As Nurmagomedov continues to defend his title, the possibility of him moving to larger promotions may arise, especially if he maintains his unbeaten streak.

Signals to watch

Future match announcements regarding Nurmagomedov’s next fight.
Performance and results of other fighters in the lightweight division.

Practical guidance

Do

Keep an eye on upcoming PFL events for potential matchups involving Nurmagomedov.
Follow the careers of fighters like Alfie Davis and Paul Hughes for future developments.

Don’t

Underestimate the potential for rematches in the PFL lightweight division.
Ignore the growing popularity of MMA in the UK as it may lead to more local events.

Checklist

Stay updated on PFL announcements.
Engage with local MMA training opportunities.
Follow fighters on social media for real-time updates.
Watch for news on regulatory changes in the sport.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Nurmagomedov's victory is impressive, the landscape of MMA can change rapidly. Potential injuries, changes in training camps, or unexpected challengers could alter future matchups. Additionally, the changing structure of promotions may affect fight opportunities for both Nurmagomedov and Davis.

Bottom line

Usman Nurmagomedov's impressive victory over Alfie Davis reaffirms his status in the lightweight division and sets the stage for future challenges. As the UK MMA scene continues to grow, fans should remain engaged and informed about upcoming events and potential matchups.

FAQs

How does Usman Nurmagomedov's record compare to other fighters?

Usman Nurmagomedov's record of 22 wins and one no-contest establishes him as one of the top fighters in the PFL and marks him as a potential candidate for larger promotions.

What does the future hold for Alfie Davis?

Following his loss, Alfie Davis may look to rebound by targeting fights against ranked contenders, particularly Paul Hughes, who is also a notable figure in the division.

What impact does Nurmagomedov's win have on the PFL?

Nurmagomedov's continued success enhances the PFL's reputation and highlights the competitiveness of the lightweight division, potentially attracting new fans and fighters.