About Dakota Ditcheva
Dakota "Dangerous" Ditcheva (born July 25, 1998) is a British professional mixed martial artist from Sale, Greater Manchester. With an undefeated professional record of 15-0, she is the reigning PFL Women's Flyweight Champion and the first British female MMA world champion.
Born to English mother Lisa Howarth (a multiple-time world kickboxing champion) and Bulgarian father Ivo Ditchev, Dakota holds dual British and Bulgarian nationality and began training in martial arts from a young age. Before transitioning to MMA, she was a decorated Muay Thai fighter, winning gold at the 2016 IFMA World Championships in Jönköping, Sweden, and capturing the ISKA British Super Atomweight Championship.
Ditcheva captured the 2024 PFL Women's Flyweight Championship with a TKO victory over former UFC title challenger Taila Santos, becoming the youngest champion in PFL history and winning the $1 million grand prize. She trains out of Manchester Top Team and American Top Team, and is scheduled to next face Denise Kielholtz at PFL New York on July 31, 2026 — a bout originally set for PFL Dubai in February 2026 before Ditcheva withdrew due to a hand injury.
Career Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dakota Ditcheva's record?
Dakota Ditcheva has a professional MMA record of 15-0. She remains undefeated with 12 wins by knockout/TKO, 1 by submission, and 2 by decision, and holds the PFL Women's Flyweight Championship.
Who is Dakota Ditcheva's next opponent?
Dakota Ditcheva is scheduled to face Denise Kielholtz on July 31, 2026, at PFL New York, held at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. The bout was originally scheduled for PFL Dubai in February 2026 but was rescheduled after Ditcheva withdrew due to injury.
Where is Dakota Ditcheva from?
Dakota Ditcheva was born in Sale, Greater Manchester, England on July 25, 1998. She holds dual British and Bulgarian nationality — her mother, Lisa Howarth, is English and her father, Ivo Ditchev, is Bulgarian.
What is Dakota Ditcheva's fighting style?
Dakota Ditcheva is known for her elite Muay Thai striking background. She utilizes devastating kicks, knees, and clinch work, complemented by an evolving grappling game.
What titles has Dakota Ditcheva won?
Dakota Ditcheva won the 2024 PFL Flyweight Championship and the $1 million grand prize, becoming the youngest champion in PFL history and the first British female MMA world champion. She also won the 2023 PFL Europe Women's Flyweight Championship and held multiple Muay Thai titles, including 2016 IFMA World Championship gold, before transitioning to MMA.
Official Resources
About This Site
This independent fan resource is dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date information about Dakota Ditcheva's career, fight history, and record. It is maintained as a reference for fans, media, and researchers and is not affiliated with Ditcheva, her management, or the PFL.
Questions, corrections, or general inquiries: contact us.