UFC releases statement after fighter is arrested for alleged kidnap, torture, and extortion

The UFC has cancelled Khusein Askhabov’s upcoming fight with Daniel Pineda after he was reportedly arrested in Thailand.

According to Phuket News, the UFC featherweight and his twin brother have been detained in connection with an extremely violent home invasion and robbery.  

Askhabov was supposed to fight Pineda at UFC Vegas 80 next month, but MMA’s premier promotion has now pulled him from the event pending an investigation into his alleged crimes.

“UFC is aware of the recent arrest and allegations regarding Khusein Askhabov,” a statement posted on their website began.

“The organization will continue to gather additional details regarding the incident. UFC will allow the legal process to play out before making any additional statements, however, his scheduled fight on October 7 has been canceled.”

Askhabov is facing kidnap, torture, and extortion charges after an Italian man was targeted by thieves who ambushed him while he was sleeping in his Phuket villa.

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The victim was bound and gagged for several hours as his attackers beat and interrogated him for information after another unknown individual tipped them off about valuables at the house.

They are believed to have escaped with items worth a total of 12 million Thai Bhat, or approximately £270,000, after snatching three luxury watches, an Apple laptop, and an iPhone.

The alleged victim’s passport and debit cards were also taken during the robbery.

Askhabov made his UFC debut in February when he suffered a unanimous decision defeat – the first of his career - against Jamall Emmers in Las Vegas.

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Prior to that, the 28-year-old boasted a rarely-seen undefeated MMA record.

Askhabov was 22-0 before his UFC debut and was hoping to get his career back on track by beating Pineda who is now without an opponent for his next fight.

It’s currently unclear if he will remain on the card or if the UFC will opt to move Pineda to an alternative show once they find him a new foe.

For now, UFC president Dana White will be focused on Askhabov’s alleged crimes.

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