By Cédric Dumas
The UFC made its first-ever stop in Azerbaijan, with several former IMMAF standouts taking centre stage on this historic card.
An all-IMMAF showdown kicks off our IMMAF alumni watch as Muhammad Naimov (13-3) edged out fellow alum Bogdan Grad (15-3) by decision in a high-paced and thrilling contest. Grad, a product of the Austrian federation, was competing in his second UFC bout, while Tajikistan’s Naimov has been with the promotion since 2023. This was a rare and exciting clash between two IMMAF-developed athletes on the sport’s biggest stage.
Also on the prelims, Klaudia Syguła (7-2) secured her first UFC win with a dominant decision over Irina Alekseeva. The 26-year-old Polish fighter showcased her evolution since her amateur days and looks poised for a promising UFC run.
Elsewhere on the card, Melissa Mullins (7-2), another IMMAF alumna, fell short by unanimous decision despite a gritty showing.
Meanwhile, over in Belgium, Hexagone MMA held its debut event in the country. Rising French star Oualy Tandia (3-0) picked up his first pro finish and continues to draw attention thanks to his charisma, marketability, and solid MMA fundamentals shaped during his time on the amateur scene.
On the same card, Sekander Shadman (1-0) made a strong professional debut by defeating a far more experienced opponent. The IMMAF vet proved he’s more than ready for the pro ranks.
Back in the U.S., 2022 Pan-Ams gold medalist Shane Collins (4-0) became the new A1 Combat champion. In the main event of A1 Combat 28, Collins earned a convincing win over a seasoned promotional veteran, further establishing himself as one of the top regional prospects to watch.
Also turning pro this weekend was Ana Brito (1-0), the 2024 IMMAF World Junior Champion. Fighting out of Brazil’s acclaimed “Fighting Nerds” gym, she earned a split decision win at MMA University 2. Her entry into the pro strawweight ranks will be one to follow closely.
At BetCity Fight Nights, heavyweight prospect Omar Aliev (4-1) picked up an important win over a veteran with nearly 40 pro fights. The multi-time IMMAF junior champ and 2021 Euro silver medalist rebounded well from his lone career loss and looks like a real threat in the division.
Shamkhan Kushagov (4-0) stayed unbeaten with a unanimous decision victory at Ares FC 32. The 22-year-old IMMAF veteran continues to gain momentum in the welterweight division.
To close out the weekend, Fury FC 105 gave fans the chance to discover Umronjon Mansurov (3-0-1), who defeated top grappler Brett Pastore. The 2022 IMMAF Asia Junior gold medalist showed composure and skill in one of his most complete performances to date, scoring his first win with the promotion after a draw in his Fury FC debut.
Once again, IMMAF alumni proved they’re more than ready to thrive in the pro ranks. From impressive debuts to championship victories, their continued rise highlights the crucial role of the global amateur circuit in shaping the next generation of MMA stars.
