UFC signs 11-0 finisher who went 34-1 as an amateur

The UFC has signed 24-year-old Asaf Chopurov, an undefeated 11-0 bantamweight finisher who boasts a dominant 34-1 amateur record. The Azerbaijani prospect, nicknamed "Honey Badger," has finished ten of his eleven professional wins and held the vacant UAE Warriors bantamweight title, defending it twice. Chopurov will make his UFC debut at UFC 333 on October 24 in Abu Dhabi against Colby Thicknesse (9-1) on the undercard of a bantamweight title trilogy between training partner Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili. Chopurov's signing marks the promotion's continued interest in elite prospects from regional circuits, particularly those with elite grappling and finishing ability. His placement alongside his mentor Yan's title defense provides an ideal platform for his introduction to the UFC's highest level of competition. With his finish rate and undefeated record, Chopurov has clearly signaled his goal of UFC gold in his promotional debut announcement, positioning himself as a long-term contender in a crowded bantamweight division.