Vault Fight League shines in Dubai debut, setting stage for global MMA ambitions

Dubai saw its first professional mixed martial arts event of 2021 at the hands of the Vault Fight League (VFL). The VFL 1, held at The Agenda in Dubai Media City on September 12, attracted over 2,000 spectators for a night of international competition. The event featured 11 professional bouts from fighters spanning more than ten countries, marking VFL's arrival in the UAE with a vision of growth beyond local borders.

In the main event, Jeremy Kennedy, a former UFC fighter, faced off against Guram Kutateladze from Georgia in a three-round contest that went the distance, earning Kennedy a unanimous decision. The co-main event ended swiftly in just 63 seconds when Alim Nabiev put an end to Mike “Blood Diamond” Mathetha’s fight with a flurry of punches.

VFL 1 also showcased rising talent, including Jordanian-Palestinian fighter Rayyan Nashwan, who secured a first-round submission win over Abdeljalil Allach. The event was more than just the fights, however. VFL's founder and CEO, 18-year-old Zeyd Al Moosa, focused on creating a complete fight-night experience, with attention paid to all aspects of the event, from fighter walkouts to lighting, music, and presentation.

The event, conceived by the young entrepreneur, aimed to elevate VFL from merely signing known fighters to creating its own stars. The support of the Dubai Sports Council further bolstered VFL's launch, showcasing Dubai's commitment to fostering a thriving sporting ecosystem. With VFL 1 successfully concluding its inaugural night, the promotion’s focus now shifts to expanding its roster, building new rivalries, and establishing its own championships while maintaining its uniquely Dubai identity. The journey is just beginning, and VFL 1 marks only the first chapter in a potentially epic story.