Idman.biz
Azerbaijani mixed martial arts (MMA) representative Asaf Chopurov has been included in the list of fighters who should be attracted to the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) in 2026, according to the specialized "Combat Press" publication.
Idman.Biz reports that the Azerbaijani athlete was included in the material where the authors specifically emphasized his high potential and stable development.
The article notes that 23-year-old Chopurov has been on the same list for the second year in a row, which indicates his strong reputation among experts who follow promising fighters in the regional arena.
The writing specifically focuses on Chopurov's strong wrestling base, his ability to finish fights with submission holds, as well as his noticeable improvement in striking. The fighter's successful undefeated 2025 is also highlighted separately. In that season, Chopurov won the championship belt of the "UAE Warriors" organization and achieved one of the main victories of his career over former EFC (Eagle Fighting Championship) champion Demarte Pena. The authors of the article call Asaf Chopurov one of the most promising fighters in the division and do not rule out that he may claim the UFC title in the future.
According to the version of "Combat Press", the following fighters are also included in the list of candidates:
Mitchell McKee (USA) - a dominant wrestler with a strong wrestling base, an athlete who has shown noticeable progress in striking and performed successfully in 2025. Rodrigo Vera (Peru) - a fighter with strong knockout and submission indicators, who showed stable performance in 2025 and defeated strong opponents.
Abubakr Yunusov (France) - an undefeated French prospect distinguished by bright choke and knockout victories, as well as a spectacular style. Jamaladdin Aliyev (Russia/Turkey) - an undefeated fighter with strong wrestling and striking techniques, included in the list of contenders for 2026.
Let us remind you that Azerbaijan is currently represented in the UFC by three fighters - Rafael Fiziev, Nazim Sadykhov and Tofig Musayev. Musayev has had one fight in the UFC so far and lost in Baku last summer, Sadykhov lost to Frenchman Fares Ziam at the end of 2025. Rafael Fiziev is currently preparing for a fight with Brazilian Mauricio Ruffi. The meeting will take place on February 1 in Sydney (Australia) as part of the UFC 325 tournament.
