Ottman Azaitar is a German-Moroccan MMA fighter who competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is the younger brother of UFC fighter Abu Azaitar. Azaitar began his sports career at a young age, learning jiu-jitsu and later transitioning to boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. He has won several important titles in Muay Thai, including the state championship of North Rhine-Westphalia in 2011 and the German championship in 2012. In 2017, Azaitar won the BRAVE Combat Federation Lightweight Championship, but was later stripped of the title for refusing to defend it. He signed with the UFC in 2018 and made his debut in September 2019, winning the fight via knockout. He has since had a mixed record in the UFC. In January 2021, Azaitar was released from the UFC after breaking COVID-19 safety protocols, but was later reinstated. He most recently fought in November 2022, losing via knockout in the first round. Azaitar is scheduled to face Darrius Flowers on November 18, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 232.
Early Career and Background
Azaitar began his sports career at a young age, learning jiu-jitsu and later transitioning to boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. His dedication and talent quickly led to success in the world of combat sports. In 2011, he clinched the state championship of North Rhine-Westphalia in Muay Thai, showcasing his formidable skills and earning recognition in the German martial arts community.
Azaitar’s passion for martial arts continued to grow, and in 2012, he became the German champion in Muay Thai. This achievement further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the combat sports arena. His striking proficiency and technical prowess set him apart from his peers, catching the attention of promoters and fans alike.
With an impressive background in multiple disciplines, Azaitar made the transition to mixed martial arts (MMA) and began making waves in the Lightweight division. His diverse skill set, which combines his expertise in jiu-jitsu, boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, proved to be a potent combination inside the cage. It was only a matter of time before he caught the attention of major promotions, including the BRAVE Combat Federation and the UFC.
Making an Impact
His accomplishments in various combat sports caught the attention of the BRAVE Combat Federation, where he made a name for himself by winning the Lightweight Championship in 2017. However, controversy followed as he refused to defend the title, resulting in its eventual stripping. Despite the setback, Azaitar’s talent and potential could not be denied, and he was soon signed by the UFC in 2018.
Azaitar made his UFC debut in September 2019, making an immediate impact by securing a knockout victory. His explosive power and striking ability were on full display, leaving fans and opponents alike in awe of his potential. As he continued to compete in the UFC, his record became mixed, showcasing both victories and defeats against tough competition.
Though Azaitar faced setbacks in his career, his determination and resilience allowed him to overcome challenges. After a brief release from the UFC due to a breach of COVID-19 safety protocols, he was reinstated and returned to the Octagon. However, his most recent fight in November 2022 ended in a first-round knockout loss. Nevertheless, Azaitar remains focused on his upcoming bout against Darrius Flowers at UFC Fight Night 232, where he looks to showcase his skills and secure a decisive victory.
Upcoming Fight and Future Aspirations
As Azaitar prepares for his upcoming fight against Darrius Flowers, he has his sights set on a successful performance that will solidify his position in the Lightweight division. With his diverse skill set and relentless fighting style, he aims to secure a victory and continue his ascent in the MMA world.
Beyond his upcoming fight, Azaitar has ambitious goals for his future in the sport. He seeks to challenge himself against top-ranked opponents, climb the rankings, and ultimately vie for the UFC Lightweight Championship. With his relentless drive and determination, Ottman Azaitar is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of MMA.
BRAVE Combat Federation and UFC
In 2017, Azaitar won the BRAVE Combat Federation Lightweight Championship before signing with the UFC in 2018 and making his debut in September 2019. His transition to the UFC was highly anticipated, as he had already established himself as a formidable fighter in the world of mixed martial arts. With his explosive striking power and relentless aggression, Azaitar quickly made a name for himself in the Lightweight division.
During his time in the BRAVE Combat Federation, Azaitar showcased his skills and captured the attention of fight fans worldwide. In memorable battles, he displayed his knockout power and unrelenting determination. These victories catapulted him to the forefront of the MMA scene, setting the stage for his entry into the prestigious UFC.
Since joining the UFC, Azaitar has faced a diverse range of opponents, testing his abilities to the fullest. While he has experienced some setbacks along the way, he has also celebrated impressive victories, earning him the respect and admiration of both fans and fellow fighters. His fearless fighting style and relentless pursuit of victory have made him a crowd favorite and a force to be reckoned with in the octagon.
Azaitar’s journey in the UFC has not been without its challenges. In January 2021, he faced controversy when he violated COVID-19 safety protocols, resulting in his release from the organization. However, he was later reinstated and given the opportunity to continue his career in the UFC. Despite this setback, Azaitar remains focused and determined to make a comeback.
Upcoming Fight and Future Plans
Azaitar’s next challenge awaits him at UFC Fight Night 232, where he is scheduled to face Darrius Flowers on November 18, 2023. This highly anticipated matchup will provide Azaitar with an opportunity to showcase his skills and prove himself once again in the octagon.
Looking ahead, Azaitar has expressed his aspirations to continue his MMA journey and make a statement in the Lightweight division. With his undeniable talent and hunger for success, it is clear that Ottman Azaitar’s story in the world of MMA is far from over.
Controversies and Comeback
In January 2021, Ottman Azaitar made headlines when he was released from the UFC after breaking COVID-19 safety protocols. The incident raised concerns and drew criticism from fans and officials alike. However, Azaitar’s story took an unexpected turn when he was later reinstated by the promotion.
The incident was a significant setback for Azaitar, who had been building a reputation as a promising fighter in the Lightweight division. Breaking COVID-19 safety protocols not only put his own health and the health of others at risk but also violated the strict guidelines set by the UFC to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the sport.
Azaitar’s reinstatement came as a surprise to many, demonstrating the UFC’s willingness to give fighters a second chance. It also highlighted Azaitar’s potential and the faith the promotion still had in him. Despite the setback, Azaitar remained determined and focused on making a comeback.
Post-Comeback Challenges
Following his reinstatement, Azaitar faced new challenges on his road to redemption. He returned to the octagon in November 2022, but unfortunately, he suffered a knockout loss in the first round. The defeat was undoubtedly disappointing for Azaitar, but it serves as a reminder of the highly competitive nature of the sport.
Despite the setback, Azaitar did not let the loss define him. He continued to work hard and remained dedicated to his craft. His focus now turns to his upcoming fight against Darrius Flowers at UFC Fight Night 232. This bout presents a crucial opportunity for Azaitar to prove himself once again and showcase his skills to fans and critics.
As Azaitar prepares for his next fight, he remains committed to learning from his past mistakes and improving as a fighter. His journey has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks, but one thing remains clear: Ottman Azaitar’s resilience and determination continue to shine through, driving him to overcome challenges and make a name for himself in the world of MMA.
Upcoming Fight and Future Plans
Ottman Azaitar is scheduled to face Darrius Flowers on November 18, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 232. This highly anticipated bout will take place in a crucial moment of Azaitar’s career, as he looks to reestablish himself as a top contender in the Lightweight division of the UFC.
Coming off a recent loss in November 2022, Azaitar is determined to bounce back and showcase his skills inside the octagon. Known for his explosive striking and knockout power, he will be looking to impose his will on Flowers and secure a victory that will propel him back into contention.
With a strong background in various striking disciplines, including boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, Azaitar possesses a diverse skill set that has proven to be a challenge for his opponents. His aggressive style and relentless pressure make him a formidable force in the Lightweight division.
This upcoming fight marks a pivotal moment for Azaitar’s career, as he aims to make a statement and prove that he still belongs among the elite fighters in the UFC. With his sights set on future success, Azaitar is determined to deliver an exciting performance for his fans and secure a victory that will elevate him towards title contention.
