Dakota Ditcheva to Face Denise Kielholtz in Dubai on Feb. 7

URGENT UPDATE: PFL star Dakota Ditcheva is set to return to the octagon for a highly anticipated non-title flyweight fight against Denise Kielholtz on February 7, 2026, in Dubai. The Professional Fighters League (PFL) officials confirmed this thrilling matchup earlier today, marking the opening event of the promotion’s 2026 calendar.

This event, titled PFL: Road to Dubai, will also feature a headlining lightweight title fight between Usman Nurmagomedov and Alfie Davis. Ditcheva, who boasts an impressive record of 15-0, has not fought since July 2025, when she suffered a broken hand during a decision victory over Sumiko Inaba—her first bout that went the distance.

The 27-year-old fighter from Manchester is eager to bounce back after a challenging year and aims to showcase her skills once again. Immediately following her last fight, Ditcheva announced she had signed a new, multi-fight contract with the PFL, solidifying her commitment to the promotion and her quest for further success.

Kielholtz, who holds a record of 8-5, is a seasoned competitor with a background in professional kickboxing and has previously challenged for the Bellator MMA title. She faced Julianna Velasquez in a close split decision loss in 2021, demonstrating her resilience and skill in the cage.

This matchup is not just a fight; it represents a pivotal moment for both athletes as they seek to regain momentum in their careers. Fans are eagerly anticipating the clash between Ditcheva’s undefeated record and Kielholtz’s striking prowess.

As the fight date approaches, keep an eye on the PFL’s developments, including potential changes to the card and any additional announcements regarding fighters and matchups. The excitement surrounding PFL: Road to Dubai is palpable, and this fight will undoubtedly draw significant attention from fans worldwide. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an exhilarating start to the 2026 PFL season!