PFL signs Renat Khavalov, Khabib's pick for future superstar

Two years ago, Khabib Nurmagomedov was asked who the No. 1 unknown beast from his gym was.

After a brief pause, one name came to mind: Renat Khavalov.

Fast forward two years, and Khavlov (8-0) has signed with his first major promotion. On Thursday, PFL officials informed MMA Junkie that Khavlov has signed an exclusive, multifight deal. Historically a bantamweight, Khavalov will compete at featherweight in PFL, though could appear in Bellator at bantamweight.

“I think you guys have to remember this name,” Nurmagomedov told ESPN in 2022. “Just watch his fights. This guy is a very good wrestler. He finishes everybody with knockouts. He has very fast hands. Of course, he has great ground game. He’s young. He’s very hungry. I’m very excited about his future. … He finishes everybody. He knocks out everybody. Nobody can take him down. He has a great wrestling base. I think if he’s going to stay focused, keep training like he’s doing all his last six years with our team, I think he’s going to be a big, big superstar in the future.”

Undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov underling Renat Khavalov (8-0) has signed with @PFLMMA, per promotion officials.

Khavalov is 25 with six finishes in eight fights. pic.twitter.com/Bn7MG5T1Fo

— Nolan King (@mma_kings) August 1, 2024

Khavalov, 25, enters PFL with an undefeated record and six finishes by strikes in eight professional appearances. He’s competed for UAE Warriors and Eagle FC, among other promotions.

No debut date or opponent has been announced for Khavalov at this time.