Iraq's Amir Albazi calls for Abu Dhabi title shot after sealing biggest win of UFC career

Rising UFC contender Amir Albazi celebrated the greatest professional victory of his career by calling for a title shot in Abu Dhabi later this year.

The Iraqi flyweight, 29, came through a closely contested split decision against No 3-ranked challenger Kai Kara-France in the main event at UFC Fight Night at the promotion's Apex on Sunday morning.

Albazi, the division’s No 7 contender, took the bout 47-48, 48-47, 48-47, lifting his professional record to 17-1. He is now 5-0 in the UFC since debuting in Abu Dhabi in 2020, during the inaugural Fight Island series.

Speaking inside the octagon immediately after his latest victory was confirmed, Albazi called for the winner of next month’s title fight between flyweight champion Brandon Moreno and Alexandre Pantoja.

Asked by interviewer Michael Bisping whom he wanted next, Albazi said: “There is no name. There is only one thing I want. And I will get that title. That’s all that matters. Abu Dhabi, October 21. I know they’re coming to Abu Dhabi, it’s my people, give me that fight.

“Pantoja-Moreno, whoever wins that fight, I want to be next. I want to get my title. I’m next. Let’s go.”

After a big win tonight, @AmirAlbazi makes his case for a title shot