Led by Dana White, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has been spreading its wings to different parts of the world in recent years, and the sport’s popularity is growing exponentially. With the globalization of the UFC, fighters from various countries and cultures are making their way onto the world stage.
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One such fighter is Nurullo Aliev from Tajikistan, who recently made his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night 220. The 22-year-old took on Brazilian fighter Rafael Alves, who is 10 years older than Aliev.
Dana White stunned by Tajikistan’s support for Nurullo Aliev
After winning a UFC contract at Dana White’s Contender Series 55 in September 2022, Aliev fought his first UFC fight on Feb 25th. It was a historic moment for Tajikistan, as Aliev became Tajikistan’s first UFC fighter to compete in the UFC.
Thousands of Tajik fans gathered in a stadium to watch Nurullo Aliev’s UFC debut. UFC President Dana White took to social media to praise the fans’ support and excitement for Aliev. He posted a video on Instagram with the caption – “This is how many people showed up in a stadium in Tajikistan to watch UNDEFEATED @nurullo_aliev first fight in the @ufc. How BADASS is this?!?!” Here is how fans reacted to this –
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One said – “Dana this is just the beginning”
Another fan commented – “Among the poorest of past Soviet Republic rests undivided and indivisible support by a culture of one. This is awesoooome!”
One fan said – “It all started with a dream ✨ 💥👊👏 kudos @danawhite”
One pointed out Aliev’s misconduct in the fight – “Then he goes and bites his opponent. Yikes”.
Another fan supported Tajik athletes by saying – “Tajik athletes can make the UFC more interesting”
One person commented – “Favorite moment of the night for sure. I got chills.”
Another fan appreciated Tajikistan’s support – “@danawhite I think everyone in Tajikistan is watching UFC it would be nice to have some tournaments there I am from UK myself I am shocked (seeing) Tajikistan fans”
One fan gave White a quick suggestion – “@danawhite it’s a part of them. Follow more Tajik fighters and you will be shocked by their support. Let’s go Tajikistan 🔥🔥”
Nurullo Aliev’s UFC debut
Aliev did not disappoint his fans, as he won his first UFC fight against Alves in a majority decision. It was a hard-fought battle, and Aliev‘s toughness and resilience were on full display. Although Aliev faced some criticism and a point deduction for biting his opponents, fans still praised the young fighter’s performance.
The victory was not just a win for Aliev but a win for Tajikistan, as it put the country on the map in the world of MMA. Aliev‘s triumph will inspire young fighters from Tajikistan to pursue their dreams and make it big on the world stage. What do you make of Aliev’s victory and the support he has garnered from his countrymen? Let us know in the comments below.
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