Title-holding champions from two different MMA organizations will battle it out in the Octagon Two Saudi fighters, Abdullah Al-Qahtani and Malik Basahel, will feature on the roster RIYADH: Excitement was growing among mixed martial arts fans in Saudi Arabia in the runup to the Professional Fighters League versus Bellator champions event at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Feb. 24. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport As the Kingdom continued to cement its position as a hub for world-class sporting events, the MMA meeting has generated a regional and global buzz. CEO of the PFL, Peter Murray, recently said: “Saudi Arabia is the new fight capital of the world.” Event organizers have a diverse line-up of top fighters set to compete. Sports sector adviser Yousef Mufti told Arab News that the event would be an opportunity to witness title-holding champions from two different MMA organizations battle in an unforeseen format. He said: “I have been a lifelong sports fanatic, and what excites me is the Kingdom’s investments are paving the way for varied sports being introduced to new audiences.” Mufti added that it was particularly evident in boxing as Saudi Arabia had now become the global stage for some of the biggest fight cards. “It has been satisfying to see all these different sporting events taking place around the corner without having to fly many hours abroad,” he said. Two Saudi fighters, Abdullah Al-Qahtani and Malik Basahel, will feature on the roster. “This is a wonderful opportunity for younger athletes to feel inspired and see that it is, in fact, possible to become professional in their respective sports,” Mufti added.