UFC fighter Ahmad Hassanzada’s career crashed after being arrested for alleged child sex crimes in Sacramento, and forced to surrender to authorities. The once-promising MMA prospect, who earned a coveted contract through Dana White’s Contender Series just months ago, now faces serious charges involving minors that have permanently derailed his fighting future.
From UFC Contract to Criminal Charges
Ahmad Hassanzada, a 12-3 record fighter who was training with Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, has been arrested on disturbing charges related to sex crimes against children. The investigation began earlier this year, ultimately resulting in Hassanzada turning himself in after authorities issued a warrant for his arrest.
UFC hopeful Ahmad Hassanzada arrested on child sex crime charges just days before debut https://t.co/NNQb5vuW4B
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) April 20, 2025
Hassanzada faces multiple serious charges, including “Lewd or Lascivious Act with a Child Under 14” and “Lewd Act on Child Victim 14 or 15, Defendant 10 Years Older Than Victim.” His bail has been set at $400,000, reflecting the gravity of the allegations that have permanently tarnished his once-promising athletic career.
UFC Cuts Ties Immediately
The UFC wasted no time distancing itself from Hassanzada following news of his arrest on these serious charges. Officials from the premier mixed martial arts organization confirmed that Hassanzada is no longer under contract with them, effectively ending his opportunity in the organization before it truly began.
UFC-kandidaat Ahmad Hassanzada gearresteerd op beschuldiging van kindermisbruik, slechts enkele dagen voor zijn debuut https://t.co/aQtZG1L3Rf
— Nieuwsfeeder (@nieuwsfeeder_nl) April 21, 2025
Just seven months ago, Hassanzada earned his UFC contract by impressively submitting Dylan Mantello during Dana White’s Contender Series. The fighter was scheduled to make his official UFC debut against Evan Elder at UFC on ESPN 66 in Kansas City before these allegations surfaced, forcing the cancellation of his appearance and ending his association with the promotion.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation Continue
Hassanzada is scheduled to be arraigned on April 22 as the investigation into these disturbing allegations continues. The charges stem from a child sex crimes investigation that authorities have been building since early 2024, culminating in the arrest that has effectively ended his professional fighting career.
Before these allegations, Hassanzada had been on a three-fight winning streak and appeared poised for success in the UFC. His sudden fall from rising star to accused child sex offender serves as a stark reminder that character and conduct outside the octagon matter just as much as performance inside it, with the UFC’s swift action demonstrating zero tolerance for those facing such serious criminal allegations.
Sources:
https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/mma-fighter-arrested-in-sacramento-on-child-sex-crimes/