UFC and Azerbaijan sign multi-year contract to host tournaments in Baku until 2028 - PHOTO
UFC has signed a long-term cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, as well as with the Baku City Circuit Operating Company.
As reported by the company, the agreement extends until 2028 and includes the annual hosting of 'UFC Fight Night' tournaments in the capital of Azerbaijan.
The first tournament under the signed agreement is scheduled for June 27 and will take place at the National Gymnastics Arena.
As a reminder, the debut UFC event, held in June of last year at Baku Crystal Hall, attracted over 14,000 spectators. Tickets were completely sold out, demonstrating significant interest in mixed martial arts in the region.
During a meeting in Las Vegas, UFC President and CEO Dana White, together with Azerbaijan's Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov, discussed prospects for further collaboration.
Dana White called Baku one of the best cities to visit: "It's an incredibly beautiful city with hospitable people. During my previous visit, I was truly impressed. The local fans show tremendous interest in the sport and have a great understanding of it. You have to see it for yourself."
Farid Gayibov emphasized that long-term cooperation with UFC contributes to strengthening Azerbaijan's status as an international sports hub. He added that the experience gained from organizing large-scale events, including the first European Games and Formula 1 races, will serve as a foundation for promoting MMA and create additional opportunities for athletes from the country and the entire region. UFC has already secured a firm place in Baku's sports calendar and provides local fighters with a unique opportunity to perform in front of their home crowd.
Baku City Circuit CEO Magsud Farzullayev stated that after a successful debut last year, the company is pleased to expand cooperation and once again host tournaments in Baku. He noted that an even higher level of interest and an increase in the number of visitors to the capital are expected this year. Farzullayev expressed confidence that the event will be organized at a qualitatively new level and will deliver vivid emotions to both participants and spectators.
