UFC is coming back to Azerbaijan, and this time it's staying a while.
The promotion announced Tuesday a multi-year partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Baku City Circuit Operations Company that will bring a UFC Fight Night to Baku every year through 2028.
The deal kicks off with UFC Fight Night Baku on Saturday, June 27 at the National Gymnastics Arena.
A Venue Change From the 2025 Debut
The new agreement moves the event out of Baku Crystal Hall, which hosted UFC's Azerbaijan debut last June. That card, headlined by Khalil Rountree Jr. defeating Jamahal Hill, drew what UFC describes as more than 14,000 fans and sold out. The success of that night is what pushed both sides to commit to a longer run.
Dana White Comments
UFC President and CEO Dana White met with Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov in Las Vegas to finalize the deal.
Baku is one of the best cities in the world to visit," White said in a statement. "It's beautiful and home to some of the greatest people you'll ever meet. I was completely blown away when I visited last year. The hospitality was next level, and the fans were incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about the sport.
Azerbaijan's Sports Strategy Gets a Long-Term Anchor
For Azerbaijan, the deal slots UFC into a calendar that already includes Formula 1 and hosted the inaugural European Games. Gayibov framed the partnership as a platform for local fighters to compete in front of home crowds through 2028.
"Securing a multi-year partnership with UFC marks a significant milestone in Azerbaijan's strategy to solidify its status as a premier global sports destination," Gayibov said. "Our national fighters gain a prestigious platform to showcase their prowess on the international stage, competing before a passionate home crowd."
Baku City Circuit General Director Maqsud Farzullayev said demand for the 2026 return has already outpaced last year's debut.
"Following the incredible sold-out reception of last year's UFC debut, we are thrilled to extend our partnership and bring Fight Nights back to Baku," Farzullayev said. "This year, we are witnessing exceptionally strong regional demand, with a notable increase in inbound visitors."
June 27 Card Takes Shape
UFC Fight Night Baku is currently expected to be headlined by a middleweight bout between Abusupiyan Magomedov and Michał Oleksiejczuk, with Shara Magomedov vs. Michel Pereira booked in a co-main event slot. The card is already eight fights deep on paper.
Fans can register for early ticket access at UFC.com/Baku.
