Ohio’s A.J. Dobson makes pro debut at RFA 29

A.J. Dobson
A.J. Dobson

One of Ohio’s best MMA prospects will make his professional debut in one of the best prospect-driven organizations, as Buckeye State-based welterweight A.J. Dobson (0-0, 7-1 am) is set to compete at RFA 29: USA vs. Brazil next week in South Dakota.

Looking to rebound from the lone loss of his career at the hands of John Gunther last October, Dobson is set to take on Joseph Gigliotti (5-0) in a 170-pound matchup.

Dobson, who hails from Central Ohio, has trained in the past with the likes of current UFC welterweight contender Matt Brown and other notables from around the area. He earned titles in the RFO and IT Fight Series organizations before dropping the bout to Gunther, which was for the NAAFS title. He actually holds a previous win over Gunther, as he stopped him via TKO at RFO: Big Guns 12 in 2013.

Gigliotti hails from Arizona and has quickly racked up five wins after turning pro just over a year ago. Most recently and notably, he earned a TKO win over Brandon Tierney at World Series of Fighting 19 in March.

RFA 29 takes place on August 21 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and the main card will air on AXS TV. The headliner features a featherweight title fight where Raoni Barcellos will take on Ricky Musgrave for the vacant crown.