Askar Askarov has a new home.
The former UFC flyweight title contender has signed a contract with Absolute Championship Akhmat. The news was officially announced by the promotion Saturday.
This comes following Askarov’s (14-1-1) departure from the UFC in October. The Dagestan fighter asked for his release from the promotion due to health issues and was granted his request. At the time, Askarov never officially retired from MMA, but did say his career would be put on hold until he sorted out his health issues.
Askarov, 30, was last seen in action in March 2022 when he lost a unanimous decision to top contender Kai Kara-France at UFC on ESPN 33. The defeat was his first-ever professional setback and put an end to a 15-fight unbeaten run, which marked his entire MMA career.
Following the loss, Askarov tried to return in July against Alex Perez and then again in October against Brandon Royval, but both times had to withdraw due to health issues.
Askarov is a former ACB flyweight champion and has notable wins over Joseph Benavidez, Tim Elliott and Alexandre Pantoja. He also fought to a draw against current UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno back in 2019.
