Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Sydney MMA Event Cancelled Amid Gangland Threat Concerns
A mixed martial arts competition in Sydney has been abruptly called off after police raised concerns about a potential gangland attack targeting a former UFC athlete. Authorities believe the Dark Matter Fighting Championship, scheduled for April 19, posed a significant public safety risk due to credible threats against the individual.
MMA Event Shutdown Over Safety Fears
The Dark Matter Fighting Championship, planned to take place at the William Inglis Hotel in Warwick Farm, has been halted by NSW Police. This action follows intelligence suggesting that Suman Mokhtarian, a former UFC fighter and respected figure in the local MMA community, was the potential target of a gangland-related incident, as reported by 2GB’s Ben Fordham.
Ex-UFC Fighter at Center of Threat
Mokhtarian, a co-founder of Australian Top Team gym and a licensed coach, was expected to be actively involved in the event, cornering several of his athletes. He was previously the alleged target of an assassination attempt in February of the preceding year. In that incident, a man was charged with attempted murder after allegedly posing as a delivery driver and attempting to shoot Mokhtarian in Wentworthville, Western Sydney.
Former UFC fighter Suman Mokhtarian reportedly the target of a gangland threat
NSW Police intervened to cancel the Dark Matter Fighting Championship citing public safety risks.
Mokhtarian was allegedly the subject of a prior assassination attempt last February.
Police Cite ‘Serious Risk to Public Safety’
NSW Police communicated their decision to DMFC promoter Andrew Delmas earlier in April, stating their lack of support for a permit due to a ‘serious risk to public safety’.
‘It’s very difficult,’ Delmas acknowledged in an interview with 2GB. He emphasized the substantial effort required to organize such events: ‘These types of events are extremely difficult to put together. The fight card is meticulously curated to showcase the best possible show, demanding months of preparation.’
Concerns Extend Beyond Specific Target
Law enforcement also conveyed to Delmas their apprehension regarding some participating fighters, although specific individuals were not identified.
‘It’s a really challenging situation for us currently, but we are committed to finding a way forward,’ Delmas stated.
Delmas confirmed ongoing discussions with police to explore potential resolutions that would allow the event to proceed.
While Mokhtarian has reportedly indicated his willingness to forgo attendance, police remain concerned that individuals connected to the potential attack might be unaware of this and could still pose a danger to the public at the event.
Fighter’s Background
Suman Mokhtarian, a Sydney native, last competed in the UFC on December 21, 2019.
Further Updates to Follow
More information will be provided as it becomes available.