PFL Signs Saudi Arabia’s Hattan Alsaif to Multi-Fight Contract

History in the making! ✍️👏

Welcome the newest Amatuer signee to the Professional Fighters League @hattanalsaif24 pic.twitter.com/d3jAnPCKMt

— PFL (@PFLMMA) January 30, 2024

Professional Fighters League has signed Saudi-born Hattan Alsaif to an exclusive, multi-fight contract.

According to a release, Alsaif is the first female fighter from Saudi Arabia to ink a deal with a global MMA promotion.

“Receiving a contract from the PFL is a dream come true,” Alsaif said. “As the first Saudi woman signed to a global MMA contract I do not take the responsibility lightly, and I am committed to representing my country. I hope to pave the way for aspiring female fighters. I am thankful to God and the PFL for this incredible opportunity.”

The 22-year-old Alsaif has not yet competed in MMA, but she comes from a decorated muay thai background. She was a gold medal winner at the 2023 International Federation of Muay Thai Associations World Championships, where she also was recognized as the “Breakthrough Female Athlete.” Alsaif also recently took first place at the World Combat Games and at the Saudi Games.

Alsaif is expected to make her amateur MMA debut on a PFL card sometime this year. She will train alongside Abdullah Al-Qahtani, who is scheduled to face Edukondal Rao on the preliminary portion of the upcoming PFL vs. Bellator card.

“We are thrilled to welcome Hattan Alsaif, a truly groundbreaking athlete to the PFL,” said PFL president of fighter operations Ray Sefo. “In collaboration with our partner, SRJ Sports, PFL is dedicated to discovering exceptional fighters like Alsaif and championing the cause of women in MMA in the region. Our goal is to provide them with a global platform to showcase their skill sets.”

The signing comes on the heels of the news that the organization will launch PFL MENA, a regional league focused on the Middle East and North Africa, in 2024. Saudi Arabia has become a hub for combat sports in recent months and will serve as the host for PFL vs. Bellator on Feb. 24.