Vadim Nemkov once again looked like a world beater earlier today (Sat., Dec. 13, 2025) at PFL Lyon LIVE on ESPN+ from inside LDLC Arena in Lyon, France, defeating heavyweight goliath and former PFL tournament winner, Renan Ferreira, with a nasty first-round submission (triangle choke).
Today’s main event was supposed to be a little closer on paper, but Nemkov once again proved he’s one of the best fighters in MMA today not currently rostered by Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The former Bellator
MMA light heavyweight champion was putting a 14-fight unbeaten streak on the line against a dangerous knockout threat in Ferreira, who was last seen getting his clocked clean by Francis Ngannou (watch HERE).
Nemkov, who was 2-0 entering this weekend since returning to heavyweight back in February 2024, didn’t let this one last past the first round. The talented Russian fighter was able to utilize his strong grappling to get Ferreira to the ground early and work from top position. Nemkov eventually saw a window of opportunity to lock up the triangle choke and didn’t miss. It was only the second time in Ferreira’s career that he’s lost by submission.
Check out the video highlights below:
Nemkov, 33, now has another world title to add to his mantle. The former Bellator king continues to impress and improve, leaving fight fans to wonder how he’d do against the best in the world. If the stars align for Nemkov in 2026 maybe he’ll have his chance to prove it against “The Predator.”
For more PFL Lyons results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
