Former Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov of Russia takes on American Timothy Johnson in the main card of the PFL Champions Series - Road to Dubai after two of his previously scheduled opponents withdrew. First, Ante Delija, the 2022 PFL heavyweight winner, withdrew due to an elbow injury. He was replaced by current PFL light heavyweight champion Corey Anderson, who also withdrew, claiming he was too tough an opponent for Vadim Nemkov. The Russian is a massive favorite against veteran Johnson, who previously competed in the UFC.
Bet on Vadim Nemkov vs. Timothy Johnson with 1xBet
MMA: PFL Heavyweight
Where to Watch: MAX
Venue: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Date: 25.01.2025 22:00
Vadim Nemkov
Fedor Emelianenko’s mentee, Vadim Nemkov, first claimed the Bellator light heavyweight world championship from Ryan Bader in late 2020. He made five successful title defenses, breaking the record for most defense, before vacating the title to move up to heavyweight. The 32-year-old combat sambo stylist has beaten some of the toughest guys in MMA, including Corey Anderson who he defeated via a decision in 2022. Nemkov’s resume also includes wins over Yoel Romero and Philipe Lins. The Belgorod-born heavyweight has been unbeaten since 2016, when he fought 13 times. He is on a 3-fight winning streak since a no contest against Corey Anderson in April 2022.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 32
- Height: 6’.1”
- Reach: 76”
- Weight: 245lbs (117kg)
- Record: 17-2-1
Timothy Johnson
The Veteran Timothy Johnson is a grizzly warrior who started competing in martial arts at collegiate levels in America. A two-time All-American, Johnson competed at UFC and Bellator before his current PFL stint. He lost to Fedor Emelianenko in late 2021 at Bellator 269. Johnson has fought many outstanding names in the MMA world, including Marcin Tybura, Cheick Kongo, Linton Vassell, Vitaly Minakov, and Denis Goltsov, who he lost to in his last fight in August 2024.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 39
- Height: 6’3”
- Reach: 78”
- Weight: 264lbs (120kg)
- Record: 18-10
Betting Odds
Timothy Johnson is a 9.50 underdog on Bet365. 1xbet has over 1.5 at 3.00 odds, and yes to the start of round 2 is listed at 1.9 odds. Betway prices Johnson at 7.00 odds. Read more here.
Bet on Vadim Nemkov vs. Timothy Johnson with 1xBet

