UFC comes to Azerbaijan
For the first time ever, Azerbaijan will host the globally renowned Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The historic event, UFC FIGHT NIGHT™: HILL vs. ROUNDTREE JR., will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Baku Crystal Hall. The event is organized through a partnership between UFC, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan,and Baku City Circuit Operations Company.
Main Event: Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree Jr.
The main event features a high-stakes light heavyweight bout between former UFC champion and current #4 contender Jamahal Hill and #7 ranked Khalil Rountree Jr.. Hill, known for his explosive finishes, returns to the Octagon® for his second fight of 2025, aiming to reclaim his path to the title. Rountree Jr., famous for his knockout power, looks to enter the division’s top five with a win.
Ticket Sales and Access
Tickets for UFC Fight Night: Hill vs. Rountree Jr. will go on sale on Friday, April 25 at 10:00 AM (Baku time) via iTicket.az. UFC Fight Club members will have early access beginning Wednesday, April 23, and fans who registered in advance can purchase tickets from Thursday, April 24.
Strategic Partnership with the Azerbaijani Government
Ahead of the announcement, UFC President and CEO Dana White and Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Farid Gayibov, signed a strategic cooperation agreement. The signing took place in Miami, prior to UFC 314: Volkanovski vs. Lopes.
Dana White stated:
“Azerbaijan and its capital Baku have a long history of hosting major international sporting events. We have many great fighters from this region, so bringing the UFC here makes perfect sense. I’m looking forward to an unforgettable debut event in Baku on June 21.”
Minister Farid Gayibov added:
“Hosting the UFC in Baku is another major step in establishing Azerbaijan as a regional sports leader. Thanks to the consistent support of President Ilham Aliyev and the country’s successful sports policy, Azerbaijan is now recognized as a global sports destination. Our partnership with UFC further strengthens this position.”
Magsud Farzullayev, CEO of Baku City Circuit Operations Company, emphasized:
“In addition to our long-standing collaboration with Formula 1, this new partnership with UFC is a landmark moment for Baku. It will significantly enhance Azerbaijan’s global sporting reputation and contribute to the growth of combat sports in the region.”
Spotlight on Azerbaijani Fighters
Azerbaijani fighters continue to rise on the UFC stage, showcasing elite wrestling, striking skills, and warrior spirit. Notably, Rafael Fiziev has earned global recognition with wins over top names like Rafael dos Anjos and Bobby Green, proudly representing Azerbaijan.
