Anthony Pettis to headline ORDA Global’s debut event in first MMA fight since 2022

Anthony Pettis, a former UFC lightweight champion with some memorable moments in the cage, has had a strong career so far.

The last time ‘Showtime’ fought in MMA was back in 2022 when he lost twice to Stevie Ray in PFL. Since then, he’s tried his hand at boxing, beating Roy Jones Jr, and also competed in Karate Combat.

Pettis took to social media to let fans know he’s returning to MMA, announcing a fight against Adil Boranbayev that will headline ORDA Global Fights 1 in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

“Everyone’s been asking me the same question, ‘Showtime, are you done?’ My answer’s always the same,” Pettis said on Instagram. “Time passes everybody, but not me. I’ve already done what most fighters dream of. World titles, knockouts and moments you can’t recreate. But I’m not here for memories – I’m here to make new ones.”

Boranbayev holds a record of 23-13-1 and is coming off a split decision loss in ACA last September.

The most recognisable name on his list of opponents is Shavkat Rakhmonov, who submitted him back in 2016 during their M-1 Global days.

This upcoming bout will likely carry extra meaning for Pettis as it comes after the death of his longtime coach Duke Roufus earlier this year.

“I’m not taking it easy on him,” Pettis said during his announcement video. “So Adil get ready because it’s showtime. See you soon.”