Why MMA fighter Ahmad Hassanzada arrested? Before he was set to make UFC debut

Ahmad Hassanzada, a rising MMA star from Afghanistan, has been arrested just days before what was supposed to be his UFC debut. The 28-year-old lightweight fighter turned himself in to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office over serious child s*x crime allegations connected to a 2024 investigation.

Ahmad Hassanzada Charges: Lewd Acts With Minors

According to official records, Hassanzada is facing two disturbing charges: one for allegedly committing a lewd or lascivious act with a child under the age of 14, and another for a similar act involving a minor between the ages of 14 and 15. In the second charge, the accused is reportedly more than 10 years older than the alleged victim.

UFC Debut Cancelled After Ahmad Hassanzada Arrest

Hassanzada had been scheduled to make his UFC debut on April 26, facing Mitch Ramirez in a lightweight bout at UFC Fight Night in Kansas City. But following the arrest, UFC officials confirmed that he has been removed from the event and is no longer signed with the promotion. A UFC representative told MMA Mania:
“Ahmad Hassanzada was removed from his bout and is no longer signed to the organization.”

Ahmad Hassanzada Bail Set at $400,000

The Afghan-born fighter surrendered to authorities on Saturday after an arrest warrant was issued. His bail has been set at $400,000, and he’s expected to appear for arraignment on April 22.

Ahmad Hassanzada MMA Record and Career Highlights

Before the controversy, Hassanzada had built a solid MMA record of 12 wins and 3 losses. He gained attention through Dana White’s Contender Series, where he won a UFC contract after defeating Dylan Mantello via submission in under three minutes. That victory came on September 18, 2024.

His last loss was in February 2023. Prior to that, he had been on a three-fight winning streak. Hassanzada also competed on the Contender Series in 2022 but was defeated by fellow Afghan fighter Nazim Sadykhov. Other losses in his career include fights against Piotr Birko in 2019 and Josh Streacker in the U.S.

Future in UFC Uncertain for Ahmad Hassanzada

With serious charges now hanging over his head, Hassanzada’s future in professional MMA is uncertain. The UFC has distanced itself from the fighter, and no further statements have been issued at this time.