The UFC is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, and its global popularity is rising every single moment. Despite its massive success in the business world, the organization isn’t slowing down.
Instead, it’s pushing hard to reach every corner of the globe. To further amplify this success, they are set to make their debut in Azerbaijan this June. This is expected to be a landmark moment for sure that fans won’t forget.
UFC Makes History in Azerbaijan
The company will embark on a new chapter in its history by hosting its inaugural event in Azerbaijan at the renowned Baku Crystal Hall on June 21. Since this is a landmark event, the organizers chose landmark-worthy fighters to headline it. That’s why they titled it UFC Fight Night: Hill vs. Rountree Jr., promising an explosive main event.
This milestone is the result of a new partnership between the MMA giant, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Baku City Circuit Operations Company. The future-making deal was officially announced at a signing ceremony in Miami on Saturday.
The main event of the evening will feature a highly anticipated fight between former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill (ranked No. 4) and Khalil Rountree Jr. (ranked No. 7). Dana White said, “Azerbaijan and the city of Baku have an incredible history of hosting massive global sporting events.”
AZERBAIJAN, ARE YOU READY??@JamahalH vs Khalil Rountree Jr. headline the first-ever UFC Baku on June 21 👏
Tickets on sale April 25 | Learn more: https://t.co/caJbrV3t2d
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AZƏRBAYCAN, HAZIRSAN ?@JamahalH və Khalil Rountree Jr. 21 iyun tarixində baş tutacaq ilk UFC… pic.twitter.com/qwhW8YtXmF— UFC (@ufc) April 11, 2025
He also mentioned that the region has produced many great athletes, which led the UFC to choose Baku as the next destination for the company’s growth. White’s vision is clear—not just to expand into new markets, but to create future fighters who could dominate the sport in the years to come.
Farid Gayibov Sees This Partnership as a Massive Success
At the official signing ceremony with Dana White, Farid Gayibov shared his excitement about the partnership. “Hosting UFC in Baku marks another significant milestone in our efforts to develop Azerbaijan as a regional sports leader,” he said. He also thanked President Ilham Aliyev for his strong support, which has helped boost Azerbaijan’s global sports reputation.
Then he added, “This partnership with UFC further strengthens our reputation as a global sports hub, showcasing our commitment to sports development and international cooperation.” Farid also recognized the massive popularity of the organization in Azerbaijan and beyond. He is confident that the tournament will draw fans not just from the region but from all over the world.
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