Khizriev vs. Braga 2 Set as PFL Chicago Co-Main
Khizriev vs. Braga 2 headlines PFL Chicago co-main as featherweights run back their 2024 tournament split decision.
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Timur Khizriev and Gabriel Braga will run back their 2024 tournament semifinal as the co-main event of PFL Chicago on October 16, 2026, joining a card already headlined by Liz Carmouche's women's flyweight title rematch with Jena Bishop.
The featherweight rematch was made official Tuesday. Khizriev holds the No. 2 spot in the PFL featherweight rankings, Braga sits at No. 5, and the two haven't shared a cage since their first meeting decided a trip to the 2024 season final.
Why This Rematch Matters
Khizriev beat Braga by split decision in that 2024 semifinal, then went on to knock off Brendan Loughnane in the final to win the featherweight tournament and the $1 million prize that comes with it. He hasn't fought since. That layoff is the real story here: a 30-year-old who has never lost as a pro is stepping back in against the one man who pushed him to a split verdict, after nearly two years of inactivity.
Braga, meanwhile, hasn't been sitting still. Since dropping the decision to Khizriev, the Brazilian has gone 3-1, including a win over UFC veteran Jeremy Kennedy. He's the sharper, more tested fighter walking into October, even if he's not the one holding the higher ranking.
What It Means for the Betting Markets
Layoffs like Khizriev's are exactly the kind of thing sharp bettors flag before a line even opens. An undefeated 18-0 record and a tournament title carry weight, but nearly two years of ring rust against an opponent who already took him the distance once, and has stayed busy and winning since, is a live variable. Expect Khizriev to open as a favorite given the ranking gap and prior result, but don't be surprised if the number is tighter than his unbeaten record suggests once markets account for the inactivity. Braga's recent form against a legitimate name in Kennedy gives him a real case as live underdog value.
PFL Chicago takes place at Wintrust Arena, with the flyweight title fight between Carmouche and Bishop still the top of the marquee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is fighting in the PFL Chicago co-main event?
Timur Khizriev meets Gabriel Braga in a featherweight rematch as the co-main event of PFL Chicago on October 16, 2026, at Wintrust Arena.
What happened the first time Khizriev and Braga fought?
Timur Khizriev beat Gabriel Braga by split decision in the 2024 PFL featherweight tournament semifinal, then went on to beat Brendan Loughnane in the final to win the season title and $1 million.
What is the main event of PFL Chicago?
PFL Chicago is headlined by Liz Carmouche defending against Jena Bishop for the promotion's first women's flyweight title.
