The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make a triumphant return to Baku, Azerbaijan, with an annual Fight Night event slated to take place from 2026 through 2028. This exciting development stems from a newly inked multi-year agreement, solidifying Baku as a recurring destination on the UFC’s international calendar.
The first event under this new pact will be UFC Fight Night Baku, scheduled for June 27th. This year’s event will be hosted at the National Gymnastics Arena, a shift from the promotion’s inaugural visit to the city in June 2025, which took place at the Baku Crystal Hall.
This renewed commitment follows the resounding success of UFC’s debut in Baku in June 2025. The previous event, held at Baku Crystal Hall, attracted over 14,000 enthusiastic fans, marking a sold-out show. The strong turnout and positive reception have evidently paved the way for this extended partnership.
Discussions between UFC President and CEO Dana White and Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Farid Gayibov, following the successful initial event, were instrumental in fostering the expansion of the relationship. The new agreement, brokered in conjunction with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Baku City Circuit Operations Company, ensures a UFC Fight Night will grace Baku every year until 2028.
While early listings had suggested the June 27th event would be at Baku Crystal Hall, the official announcement confirms the National Gymnastics Arena as the venue. This venue change is a notable detail for fans.
UFC has highlighted the significant fan demand within the region as a key driver for this agreement. Furthermore, Baku City Circuit has noted an increase in regional interest and inbound tourism in anticipation of this year’s event. Azerbaijani officials view this partnership as a strategic move to further enhance Baku’s reputation as a premier host city for major global sporting spectacles.
The specific fight card for the June 27th event has not yet been revealed. UFC encourages interested fans to register on the UFC Baku event page to receive updates and gain early access to ticket information. Further details regarding the event are expected as the fight week approaches.
This expansion into Baku offers UFC another consistent international presence as it continues to broaden its global footprint. For Azerbaijan, it signifies a move beyond a one-time event, establishing Baku as a regular fixture on the UFC schedule for years to come.