Sat Jan 25 20:10:00 UTC 2025: **Nemkov Faces Unexpected Heavyweight Bout in PFL Contract Finale**
Dubai, UAE – Former Bellator Light Heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov will face Tim Johnson in a heavyweight bout at PFL’s “Road to Dubai” event this Saturday, marking a significant change of plans and the culmination of a tumultuous contract period. Nemkov’s initial opponent, Ante Delija, withdrew due to injury, and a subsequent proposed trilogy fight against Corey Anderson fell through amid contract disputes.
Nemkov, who holds a 17-2-1 professional record, expressed frustration with his limited fight opportunities under his current PFL contract, stating he was slated for four fights over two years but has only had one. While he’s open to staying with the PFL, he insists on a commitment to more frequent fights moving forward. He refuted Anderson’s claims that he avoided the trilogy fight, stating that contract negotiations with the PFL for the replacement bout failed. Nemkov felt the fight with Anderson, who he considers a gatekeeper-level opponent, was not beneficial without a revised contract.
This fight against Johnson represents Nemkov’s first in nearly a year, following his victory over Bruno Cappelozza in February 2024. His upcoming match is also his final fight under his current PFL contract. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between the PFL and former Bellator fighters, with Nemkov expressing bittersweet feelings about leaving the organization where he established his name but also acknowledging the need for more frequent bouts. PFL CEO Donn Davis has indicated a willingness to work with fighters seeking to move on, leaving the future of Nemkov’s relationship with the organization uncertain.
First Piper 