Nermin Aliyeva names UFC appearance as a key career goal

Azerbaijani MMA fighter Nermin Aliyeva has made reaching the UFC one of the main goals of her professional career. She said she was a European and world champion in amateur competition under IMMAF and GAMMA, and that those achievements had given her added motivation.

Aliyeva secured the second victory of her professional career at the Fight Club Rush event in Sweden, forcing local fighter Mari Paulsen to submit in the first round. She said she had prepared to win in the opening round and achieved that goal.

Aliyeva said her main focus now is on two world championships she will compete in at the end of the year. She plans to win both events and then continue her professional fights, aiming to reach the UFC as soon as possible.

Call for support for women’s MMA

Aliyeva said attitudes toward women MMA fighters in Azerbaijan have not always been positive, noting that some people consider combat sports suitable only for men. She stressed the importance of giving girls more opportunities, confidence and support to encourage their interest in the sport.

The fighter said she sees her achievements not only as personal results but also as a way to open doors for Azerbaijani girls who may take up the sport after her. Aliyeva also said she has struggled to find sponsors to support her career.