Amir Aliakbari will be making his debut for ONE Championship soon.
The former ACA (Absolute Championship Akhmat) and Rizin heavyweight has officially signed with the Japanese promotion, though the exact details of his contract remain undisclosed.
Originally, Aliakbari signed with the UFC back in May 2019; however, the 32-year-old never had a chance to step inside of the octagon before exiting the company later that year. Aliakbari was forced to exit his UFC deal after the US sanctions against Iran prevented him from transferring his earnings.
Aliakbari faced prior sanctions back in 2010 and 2013, with the second resulting in a lifetime ban from the former International Wrestling Federation. Despite Aliakbari’s past issues, the heavyweight is one of the top prospects on the market as Aliakbari is currently on a five-fight winning streak.
Most notably, Aliakbari competed in the 2016 Rizin World Grand Prix and the Iranian managed to advance into the final round where he beat top names such as former UFC star Heath Herring during the tournament. Aliakbari was ultimately beaten by former UFC veteran Mirko Cro Cop. Overall, Aliakbari’s professional record stands at 10 wins and 1 loss.