Sydney MMA Event Halted Over Security Concerns

The Dark Matter Fighting Championship event scheduled for April 19 in Warwick Farm, Sydney, has been cancelled following police intervention over fears of a targeted attack on former UFC fighter Suman Mokhtarian.

Mokhtarian, who competed twice in the UFC in 2018-2019, was set to coach at the event. However, NSW Police determined there was a "serious risk to public safety", leading to the last-minute cancellation.

Details of the Alleged Threat

• NSW Police reportedly uncovered intelligence suggesting organized crime involvement, leading them to warn promoter Andrew Delmas.
• The NSW Combat Sports Authority refused to issue a permit, citing safety concerns despite prior vetting of fighters.

• Delmas expressed frustration, stating:

  "I'm the meat in the sandwich here. These events take months to organize, and now it's all in jeopardy."

Mokhtarian's Troubled History

• February 2024: Survived an assassination attempt outside his Wentworthville gym, allegedly by a disguised gunman.
• His brother, Ashkan Mokhtarian (also a former UFC fighter), was arrested in 2023 on drug charges, adding to the family's legal troubles.

Fallout and Future of the Event

• Promoter Delmas is seeking alternatives but acknowledges the event may not proceed.
• Mokhtarian stated he won’t attend if his presence risks cancellation.

This incident raises concerns over fighter safety and organized crime influence in Australian combat sports.