Artem Lobov Withdraws From PFL Dubai Fight With Zubaira Tukhugov After Training Injury
The long-targeted grudge match tied to the McGregor–Nurmagomedov saga was to mark Lobov’s first MMA appearance in years.
Overview
- PFL announced on its official X account on September 30 that Lobov was off the card after being injured during camp.
- Lobov said an accidental head clash during a September 29 grappling session opened a deep cut near his right eyebrow.
- Attending doctors examined the laceration and ruled him unfit to compete, prompting his withdrawal.
- Lobov cited long-standing facial scar tissue from bare-knuckle and past fights as a factor, describing the wound as a triangle-shaped tear.
- PFL has not said if Tukhugov will receive a replacement or if the matchup will be rebooked, while the Dubai event proceeds with title fights including Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes and Corey Anderson vs. Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov.