Tutarauli eyes history in BRAVE CF: Georgia vs. the World title showdown

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Rauli Tutarauli prepares for his historic main event at BRAVE CF: Georgia vs. the World in Tbilisi.

Rauli Tutarauli is on the cusp of history as he prepares for the biggest bout of his career at BRAVE CF: Georgia vs. the World on Friday, October 3, at the Tbilisi New Sports Palace.

The Georgian lightweight contender will headline his home nation’s first-ever BRAVE Combat Federation event against seasoned Dutch fighter Pieter “The Archangel” Buist in a five-round clash for the interim lightweight championship.

Tutarauli carries Georgia’s pride into the cage

Tutarauli, 33, knows the stakes extend beyond personal glory. A win would make him the first Georgian athlete to capture BRAVE CF gold, following in the footsteps of compatriots Ilia Topuria and Guram Kutateladze, who previously shined under the same banner before breaking through internationally.

“This is more than just a belt for me. If I win, I carry the pride of my country with me. Becoming the first Georgian BRAVE CF world champion would mean everything — for myself, for my family, and for our nation’s future in mixed martial arts,” Tutarauli said.

Buist stands as a formidable test

While the moment is historic, Tutarauli must overcome one of the sport’s most experienced challengers. Buist, who holds 27 career fights, has competed across major promotions and brings both power and composure to the matchup.

Tutarauli previously fought for the lineal lightweight crown, losing to current champion Abdisalam Uulu Kubanychbek in 2024. A win over Buist would not only give him gold but also position him for a rematch with the reigning titleholder.

“I respect Buist and everything he has done in this sport. He is dangerous and experienced, but I believe this is my time. If I can beat him, it will prepare me for Kubanychbek and the real crown. But first, my focus is on October 3. That night, I will fight with everything I have to give Georgia its first BRAVE CF world champion,” Tutarauli declared.

BRAVE CF’s debut event in Georgia also makes the nation the 37th country to host a live show for the fast-growing MMA promotion, further amplifying the stakes for Tutarauli’s title bid.