RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s mixed martial arts scene is gearing up for an electrifying second season of the Professional Fighters League MENA with top regional fighters intensifying their training ahead of the highly anticipated competition in April.

Defending champion Abdullah Al-Qahtani and record-breaking fighter Hattan Al-Saif are among those preparing to showcase their skills on the premier stage, fine-tuning their conditioning, strategy and discipline as they aim for championship success.

With training for the season coinciding with Ramadan, fighters are adjusting their regimens to maintain peak performance levels while fasting.

Al-Saif highlighted the importance of structure and discipline during this period, emphasizing the need for mental clarity and a strict diet. She personally prepares her own meals during the holy month to ensure she meets the demands of a high-performance athlete.

Al-Qahtani, who captured the title in the league’s inaugural season, remains unfazed by the challenge of training while fasting. His routine remains largely unchanged, with iftar serving as his primary meal before he shifts focus to training. The Saudi fighter is confident in his ability to retain his title.

“All the fighters are watching me, but I’m prepared for every opponent and ready to compete with full strength inside the cage,” he said.

The reigning champion is also looking forward to tough matchups in the upcoming season, expressing a desire to test himself against elite fighters such as Abdulrahman Al-Hayassat, Islam Reda and Taha Bendaoud.

His determination to remain at the top of the division signals another thrilling season of MMA action for PFL MENA fans.