Timur Khizriev, the reigning Russian PFL featherweight champion, was shot multiple times in a shocking incident involving two masked gunmen in Makhachkala, Russia. The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has confirmed it is aware of the situation.
Footage circulating online shows Khizriev, 29, being ambushed as he retrieved personal items from his car boot. He was reportedly shot five times at close range by one of the attackers, and despite this, he managed to react swiftly, taking down the first assailant while attempting to avoid further shots from the second attacker. The harrowing scene depicts him fleeing by leaping over parked cars.
Despite sustaining injuries to his shoulder, hand, and chest, Khizriev is said to be in stable condition and is undergoing surgery, according to Russian media. Reports indicate that he was ambushed while exiting a vehicle in front of a residential building.
MMA publication MMAWeekly detailed that Khizriev was struck by five bullets fired from a traumatic pistol, a non-lethal weapon typically used for less-lethal ammunition like rubber bullets. The PFL issued a statement expressing their thoughts and solidarity with Khizriev and his family during this distressing time, assuring that they are maintaining close communication with his representatives.
Khizriev, who remains undefeated in 18 professional fights, had recently claimed victory in the PFL featherweight tournament in November, where he triumphed over Brendan Loughnane in a match held in Saudi Arabia. This incident marks a serious turn of events for the athlete, who was celebrated for his fighting prowess and resilience in the ring.