Story perspectives

McKee Beats Isbulaev, Extends Featherweight Streak, Title Vacant

6/28/2026

Summary

McKee Defeats

A.J. McKee defeated Salamat Isbulaev by unanimous decision (30-27 on all three judges' cards) at PFL San Diego.
The California State Athletic Commission said McKee earned $100,000 flat while Isbulaev received $10,000.
The victory improved McKee to a 25-2 record, gave him a third straight win in the 145-pound division, and left the PFL featherweight title vacant with Timur Khizriev the only ranked fighter ahead of him.

Summary

CSAC Releases Payroll

The California State Athletic Commission released the San Diego card payroll to MMA Fighting.
McKee earned a flat $100,000 guarantee with no win bonus, unlike most fighters.
Isbulaev forfeited a $10,000 win bonus after his decision loss.
Araujo received only her $20,000 show money, missing a $20,000 win bonus.
Payouts ranged from Shannon Clark’s $6,000 total to Alexander Shabliy’s $50,000 purse, with the next PFL event set for July 19, 2026 in Washington.

History

Historical Context

In 2006 the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) formally adopted the Unified Rules—originally crafted by the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board in 2000—to standardize weight classes and fighter pay, setting a $5,000 minimum show purse and capping win bonuses at 100% (a 50 % rise). This regulatory legacy now underpins PFL payouts such as A.J. McKee’s $100,000 guarantee.

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McKee Defeats

A.J. McKee defeated Salamat Isbulaev by unanimous decision (30-27 on all three judges' cards) at PFL San Diego.
The California State Athletic Commission said McKee earned $100,000 flat while Isbulaev received $10,000.
The victory improved McKee to a 25-2 record, gave him a third straight win in the 145-pound division, and left the PFL featherweight title vacant with Timur Khizriev the only ranked fighter ahead of him.

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