“Lazy King” Returns to Rule: Abdoul Abdouraguimov Headlines PFL France in Nantes on Sept. 26

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is set to make a triumphant return to France, and leading the charge is none other than local hero Abdoul “Lazy King” Abdouraguimov, who will headline the upcoming card on September 26 at the Zenith Nantes Metropole.

After a string of canceled French events—including the most recent on May 26 in Paris—this event marks the league’s first successful trip back to French soil since establishing its European circuit. And for Abdouraguimov, it will be more than just another fight—it will be a long-awaited homecoming.

Originally born in Dagestan, Abdouraguimov now proudly calls Nantes his home. Over the years, he’s become a celebrated name in the city and across France, known for his elite grappling, confident swagger, and wildly entertaining fighting style. His rise through the ranks has been nothing short of spectacular, and now he gets to showcase his skills where his journey began.

“PFL is coming home,” Abdouraguimov stated in a release. “After 21 professional fights, I can finally fight in front of my home crowd, where I grew up and learned this sport. And now, it’s at the Zenith Nantes Metropole that I’m going to do the next Lazy Show. Grab a seat, some popcorn, and be good, but not too much, because I’m here to entertain you on September 26, let’s go!”

Abdouraguimov enters the bout riding an impressive nine-fight winning streak, including dominant victories over respected MMA veterans Godofredo Pepey and Karl Amoussou. Those wins earned him two championship belts in Ares FC, one at welterweight and another at middleweight, making him a rare two-division champion before he even set foot in a PFL cage.

Since signing with PFL Europe, Abdouraguimov has continued his winning ways, racking up three straight victories under the league’s banner. His most notable win came against UFC veteran Laureano Staropoli in December 2024 at the PFL Europe event in Décines-Charpieu, where he headlined the card and delivered a strong performance that solidified his position as a top star in the European MMA scene.

While his opponent for the Nantes headliner has yet to be confirmed, Abdouraguimov’s involvement is enough to generate serious excitement among French MMA fans. His unique blend of charisma, grappling dominance, and fight IQ makes him one of the most compelling figures in European MMA today.

The Sept. 26 card will also feature the semifinals of the PFL Europe lightweight and bantamweight tournaments, with fighters competing for a coveted spot in the $100,000 finals scheduled for Dec. 13 in Lyon. With so much on the line, the event promises to be a major milestone for the PFL’s European expansion.

Abdouraguimov’s return to his roots has all the makings of a landmark night in French MMA. As “The Lazy King” prepares to defend his legacy on home soil, fans can expect a show filled with high-level action, intense rivalries, and, of course, the entertaining flair that only Abdoul can bring.