When Is Timur Khizriev's Next Fight? What the Dagestan Shooting Means for His Undefeated Record and PFL Future

Undefeated PFL featherweight champion Timur Khizriev was shot five times on the night of 15 July in Makhachkala, Dagestan, by two unidentified attackers. The 29-year-old was ambushed outside a residential building, just months after winning his first PFL title. Authorities suspect a targeted assault, though the motive is still unknown.

Timur Khizriev Shooting Incident: What Happened in Dagestan

According to reports from Russian media, the incident occurred at around 11:30 p.m. local time near Daniyalov Street in Makhachkala. Khizriev was ambushed by two masked individuals who opened fire with a traumatic pistol, a non-lethal weapon designed to fire rubber bullets.

Khizriev sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to his chest, shoulder and wrist. Despite the assault, he reportedly managed to resist one of the attackers before collapsing. Emergency services transported him to a local hospital where he underwent surgery.

Law enforcement agencies in Dagestan have launched an investigation. The suspects fled the scene in a white vehicle, and as of 16 July, no arrests have been made. Authorities have not confirmed whether the attack was related to Khizriev's public profile or personal affairs.

Timur Khizriev MMA Record and PFL Achievements

Khizriev holds an undefeated professional MMA record of 18 wins and no losses. He began his career fighting in regional Russian promotions before moving to Bellator, where he posted a 3–0 record. In 2024, Khizriev signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and quickly rose through the featherweight division.

In November 2024, he defeated former champion Brendan Loughnane in a dominant performance to win the PFL featherweight title and a $1 million prize. Known for his wrestling and control-based style, Khizriev fights out of DagFighter and American Top Team.

His consistent performances have placed him among the top-ranked featherweights in global MMA rankings.

Impact of the Attack on Timur Khizriev's PFL Career

Khizriev's injuries, while not reported as life-threatening, may require a significant recovery period. Although traumatic pistols do not use live ammunition, they can cause deep tissue damage and require medical intervention. The extent of internal injury and rehabilitation needed has not yet been publicly disclosed.

His scheduled training and preparation have been paused, and PFL has not released any updates on changes to its featherweight season. The incident has created uncertainty regarding Khizriev's return to competition and title defence timeline.

Timur Khizriev Next Fight: Recovery Timeline and Future Matchups

Before the incident, Khizriev was expected to defend his PFL featherweight title during the ongoing 2025 season. No official opponent or fight date had been announced prior to the attack. Based on the severity of his injuries, medical clearance may take weeks or months.

Potential contenders in the PFL featherweight division include Gabriel Braga and Bubba Jenkins, both of whom were expected to be in title contention this year. The PFL may consider introducing an interim title bout if Khizriev will be sidelined long-term.

What Lies Ahead for Timur Khizriev in the PFL

As of mid-July, Khizriev remains under medical supervision following surgery. The PFL champion's recovery and readiness to resume competition will depend on forthcoming medical assessments and the outcome of the criminal investigation. Updates from his management or the league are expected in the coming weeks.

Until further details emerge, Khizriev's unbeaten record and championship status remain intact, but his fighting future will hinge on both his physical recovery and the resolution of the case surrounding the attack.