Farman Hasanov is now tied to a UFC schedule that runs through 2028 in Baku. The April partnership means fight nights will return once a year, with the first under the deal set for June 27 at the National Gymnastics Arena. That gives Azerbaijan a fixed place on the UFC calendar and local fighters a recurring home stage.
Farid Gayibov and Dana White
Dana White and Farid Gayibov announced the multi-year partnership in April. White said, “Baku is one of the best cities in the world to visit.” He added, “It’s beautiful and home to some of the greatest people you’ll ever meet.”
Gayibov framed the deal as more than a one-off event. He said, “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.” He also said national fighters gain “a prestigious platform to showcase their prowess on the international stage, competing before a passionate home crowd.”
Baku Crystal Hall debut
The partnership follows UFC’s debut in Azerbaijan on June 21, 2025 at Baku Crystal Hall. That card was headlined by Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree Jr., and TKO Group Holdings said more than 14,000 fans attended the sold-out fight night.
The June 27 show at the National Gymnastics Arena is the first event under the agreement. If UFC keeps the once-a-year cadence it has set through 2028, Baku will keep serving as a repeat stop rather than a one-night visit. That also gives Azerbaijani fighters a stable runway for home appearances instead of waiting for a separate deal each time.
ANCA criticism
The UFC’s return has also drawn criticism. The Armenian National Committee of America accused the UFC of sportswashing on behalf of Azerbaijan in June 2024, and Aram Hamparian said, “The international community faces a stark choice: remain complicit in Azerbaijan’s propaganda campaign, or use these high-profile moments to shed light on the suffering that continues behind closed doors.”
The June 27 card is the immediate test. UFC FIGHT NIGHT BAKU is set, the venue is set, and the deal now gives Baku a runway through 2028, but the lineup has not been laid out in the facts available here.
