AJ McKee, a prominent figure in mixed martial arts and the reigning champion of the Professional Fighters League (PFL), is set to showcase his skills on an international stage at Super RIZIN 5. Scheduled for September 10, 2026, at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan, McKee will face Razhabali Shaydullaev, the current RIZIN champion, in a historic unification bout that will see both the RIZIN Featherweight Championship and the PFL World Featherweight Championship on the line.
This matchup is particularly significant as it marks the first time in MMA history that two promotions' world titles will be contested simultaneously. McKee, who boasts an impressive record of 21 wins and only one loss in Bellator, has recently been on a winning streak, claiming victories over notable opponents like Akhmed Magomedov, Adam Borics, and Salamat Isbulaev. Shaydullaev, on the other hand, remains undefeated with a record of 19-0, with all his victories coming by way of stoppage, including three title defenses within the last year.
In a recent interview, McKee opened up about his journey leading up to this pivotal fight, including his decision to quit smoking marijuana. He shared that he had made a personal oath to stop using cannabis, which he initially broke but later recommitted to for the sake of his training and mental clarity. "I made a prayer, and I was like, I just want to knock people out again," McKee recounted. His reflections on the impact of marijuana on his life and career highlight a broader conversation within the sport about athletes' mental health and coping mechanisms.
McKee expressed concern that many in his generation use marijuana as a means of self-medication, stating, "Health is wealth, man. And anybody that’s smoking weed, looking for a crutch, I just tell them, bro, face the problem." His candidness about personal struggles and growth has resonated with fans and fellow fighters alike, showcasing a side of McKee that goes beyond his athletic prowess.
As he prepares for Shaydullaev, McKee has analyzed his opponent's fighting style. He noted that while Shaydullaev is skilled in wrestling, he believes that the lack of elite wrestlers among Shaydullaev's previous opponents has allowed him to dominate. McKee plans to leverage his striking abilities to keep the fight standing, emphasizing that the bout will not take place in a cage, which could limit Shaydullaev's grappling strategies. "I think keeping him at bay, keep the range, pick him apart, and make him bring the fight," McKee explained.
Additionally, McKee shared his enthusiasm about the recent merger between PFL and MVP, expressing optimism for the future of the sport. He sees the potential for growth and increased visibility for MMA, particularly with the integration of major platforms like Netflix. McKee's vision for the sport reflects a desire for innovation and broader audience engagement.
As McKee heads into this crucial fight, he is not only aiming to secure two championship belts but also to solidify his legacy as one of the top fighters in MMA history. His ability to articulate his journey, both inside and outside the cage, sets him apart in a sport often characterized by bravado. Fans eagerly await the outcome of this monumental clash at Super RIZIN 5, where McKee will have the opportunity to prove himself on a global stage.
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