Kevin Lee, a former UFC lightweight contender, is making his PFL debut against Gadzhi Rabadanov after overcoming injuries and setbacks, aiming to prove himself as a top fighter despite skepticism and previous challenges with other promotions.
Kevin Lee isn’t shocked that his PFL return is met with skepticism rather than excitement. At 32, he once shined as a UFC lightweight contender, even battling for the interim title. Remember that brutal head kick knockout of Gregor Gillespie in 2019? Yeah, that was his last UFC win before injuries and weight class changes muddled his career.
After recovering from knee surgery, Lee snagged a regional circuit win last September. Now, he’s set for his PFL debut against Gadzhi Rabadanov, who’s on an 11-fight win streak with three knockouts. “A lot of people have written me off,” Lee told MMA Fighting. “It’s time to shut them up.”
Lee understands the doubt—it’s been five years since he fought in this division. The pandemic feels like ages ago, and the sport’s growth means many fans don’t remember his earlier days. He aims to make his mark again.
In the gap between his win and joining the PFL, Lee tried to return to the UFC, even offering to join The Ultimate Fighter. But the UFC wasn’t interested, and Lee holds no grudges. His main goal? Prove he’s still a top lightweight, and the PFL offers that chance.
“No, I’m not disappointed,” Lee said. “This is how it was meant to be. The best fighters aren’t always in the UFC.” He cites examples like Strikeforce and PRIDE, where talent thrived outside the UFC.
Lee’s focus is on the fight, not the promotion. Facing a top lightweight like Rabadanov is his chance to prove himself. The right fight, right time—that’s what matters.
While he holds no ill will towards the UFC, Lee’s frustrated with the Global Fight League. Promised big paydays and an active schedule, he found himself sidelined when GFL canceled events. He hinted at a potential lawsuit, still angry over the wasted time.
“I’ve been begging for a fight for over a year,” Lee said. “The GFL thing was a debacle. Six months wasted on the sidelines—something I never wanted.”
Despite setbacks, Lee kept pushing. Attending a PFL card, he watched Rabadanov dismantle a UFC veteran in 32 seconds. Intrigued, he expressed interest in facing him. An injury to Jay-Jay Wilson opened the door for Lee’s PFL debut.
“I went to the PFL event in Orlando,” Lee recalled. “Gadzhi was the only lightweight who caught my eye. When Wilson got injured, they called me. I didn’t hesitate. It’s time to rock and roll.”