System of a Down frontman Serj Tankian has taken to social media to criticize the upcoming UFC event scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan on June 21st. The musician, known for his vocal advocacy for Armenian causes, expressed serious concerns about the event’s proximity to where Armenian prisoners of war are allegedly being detained.
In his powerful message, Tankian stated, “On June 21st, the UFC will host an event in Baku, Azerbaijan, just meters away from where Armenian prisoners of war are illegally held and abused. This is not just sport, it’s an attempt to sport-wash war crimes”
The rock star went on to detail the humanitarian crisis facing Armenians in the region.
The UFC is set to host its first-ever event in Azerbaijan on June 21 at the Baku Crystal Hall, headlined by a light heavyweight bout between former champion Jamahal Hill and contender Khalil Rountree Jr. This collaboration with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Baku City Circuit underscores the country’s ambitions to cement itself as a regional sports hub. Officials, including UFC President Dana White and Azerbaijani Minister Farid Gayibov, praised the move as a natural step given the country’s growing roster of stars and history of hosting global events. Azerbaijan, where sports and politics are deeply intertwined, has invested heavily in international prestige through athletics—often funded by its vast oil revenues. The UFC’s arrival adds to Baku’s growing list of high-profile spectacles, which already includes Formula 1 and UEFA tournaments, with tens of millions spent to secure hosting rights.
Tankian’s statement also highlighted concerns about potential future conflicts, noting, “Now Armenia itself faces threats of renewed war.”
The System of a Down vocalist accused Azerbaijan of using sporting events to improve its international image despite human rights concerns. “From Formula One to football, Azerbaijan has used global sport to hide its crimes. Now the UFC is doing the same,” he stated.
Tankian concluded his message with a call to action, urging “athletes, fans, and human rights activists” to speak out against the event.
The UFC has not yet responded to Tankian’s criticisms. The upcoming UFC Fight Night in Baku is set to feature multiple international competitors on its card.
