Introduction

Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is making its first major addition to the newly merged MVP-PFL roster, signing undefeated featherweight champion Razhabali Shaydullaev. The deal marks a significant moment in cross-promotional MMA.

What Happened

According to combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani, Shaydullaev has agreed to a two-year contract with MVP beginning January 2027, following a landmark dual-champion performance in Osaka. Shaydullaev defeated AJ McKee under the RIZIN-PFL co-promoted banner, capturing both the RIZIN featherweight title and the PFL's 145-pound championship in front of over 48,000 fans. The victory makes him the first fighter to hold dual gold across the two organizations. He is set to become the first addition to Paul's MVP MMA merger with the PFL, which is expected to launch on January 1, 2027, with the PFL switching all branding to MVP. Helwani noted Shaydullaev has one final fight with RIZIN, likely on New Year's Eve, before fully transitioning to MVP MMA.

  • Shaydullaev is undefeated in 20 professional MMA fights, making his debut in 2019.
  • He captured RIZIN featherweight gold by knocking out Kleber Koike in one round in May 2025 and has defended the belt four times since.
  • His next scheduled appearance is a RIZIN New Year's Eve bout, after which he will fully transition to MVP MMA.

Why This Matters

The MVP-PFL merger represents a new era of promotional flexibility, allowing fighters to compete across previously separate ecosystems. Shaydullaev's addition gives Paul a proven dual-champion and undefeated star to build around at 145 pounds, signaling a serious push to attract elite talent outside the UFC. The deal also underscores Paul's growing influence in MMA roster construction and could pave the way for future high-profile signings.

Key Takeaways

  • Shaydullaev is the first fighter signed to the MVP-PFL merger, effective January 2027.
  • He finished AJ McKee to become a dual-title holder across RIZIN and PFL.
  • The 25-year-old is undefeated in 20 professional MMA fights.
  • His next bout is likely a RIZIN New Year's Eve appearance before fully joining MVP MMA.
  • The merger will rebrand all PFL operations under the MVP banner starting in 2027.
  • Paul's signing spree signals intent to expand MMA roster depth beyond the UFC.

Conclusion

Razhabali Shaydullaev's move to MVP marks the beginning of a new chapter for both the fighter and Paul's expanding promotion. As the MVP-PFL merger takes shape in 2027, Shaydullaev could become a central figure in the promotion's push to attract elite talent outside the UFC. Fans should watch for his RIZIN NYE appearance and the first MVP-PFL events early next year, which may signal a major shift in the featherweight landscape.