RIYADH – Iraqi bantamweight fighter Ali Taleb is brimming with confidence as he gears up for the biggest fight of his career at the inaugural PFL MENA Championships in Riyadh on November 29.

Taleb, who boasts an impressive 11-1 record, will face Morocco’s Rachid El Hazoume (15-3) in the championship final of the 135-pound division.

The 27-year-old has been competing in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) since 2022, and his extensive experience in major promotions, including his time as a bantamweight champion under the UAE Warriors banner, gives him a significant edge heading into the match.

Taleb is confident that his championship experience and superior record will lead him to victory. “The victory is closer to me, and I’ll surprise my opponent with a level and style he won’t expect,” Taleb said in a pre-fight interview.

“I’ve already been a bantamweight champion in 2022, when I defeated Brazilian Vinicius de Oliveira. This fight with El Hazoume won’t be that challenging, especially since he has three losses compared to my one.”

The Iraqi fighter’s assessment of El Hazoume is clear: the Moroccan’s record, which includes three losses, will play a psychological factor in their matchup.

Taleb believes it will serve as extra motivation for him to perform at his best. “This will certainly affect his performance and motivate me to give my best and achieve victory,” he added confidently.

As the fight date draws near, Taleb says his preparations have been top-notch. “I’m fully prepared and ready for this match. I’ve undergone an intensive and high-quality training camp under the guidance of top coaches,” he said, emphasizing that he feels physically and mentally prepared for the challenge.

What’s more, the presence of Iraqi fans in the crowd is an added source of motivation for Taleb. “Undoubtedly, the presence of Iraqi fans will fuel my enthusiasm and motivate me to win, fulfilling my plan and satisfying my fans who follow all my fights,” he explained.

The fighter’s loyal fanbase is sure to add to the electric atmosphere in Riyadh as Taleb competes for the prestigious PFL MENA bantamweight title.

The PFL MENA Championships, which will take place at the Boulevard Riyadh City, promises an exciting night of fights, with four championship bouts on the card. Alongside Taleb’s bantamweight clash, the event will feature:

• PFL MENA Featherweight Championship: Abdelrahman Alhyasat (5-0) vs. Abdullah Al-Qahtani (9-2)
• PFL MENA Welterweight Championship: Mohammad Alaqraa (7-0) vs. Omar El Dafrawy (12-6)
• Amateur Women’s Atomweight Bout: Hattan Alsaif vs. Lilia Osmani
• PFL MENA Lightweight Championship: Mohsen Mohammadseifi (6-1) vs. Georges Eid (10-4)

The event marks a significant milestone for the PFL in the MENA region, with a world-class fight card showcasing the best regional talent.

Taleb’s bout against El Hazoume is set to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the evening, as the two fighters battle for supremacy in the bantamweight division.

With his eyes firmly set on the title, Ali Taleb will look to make a statement in Riyadh as he continues his quest for glory in one of the sport’s most competitive divisions.