UK
Oldham’s Haider Khan Crowned World MMA Champion, Eyes UFC Glory. Haider Khan, a 25-year-old from Oldham, has made history by becoming the Full Contact Contender (FCC) middleweight world champion. Now, he has set his sights even higher—on becoming a world UFC champion.
Born and raised in the Glodwick estate, Haider’s journey is a testament to determination and resilience. He began training in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at the age of 18, while studying Politics and International Relations at university. Over the years, he has honed his skills in kickboxing, jujitsu, boxing, and wrestling, ultimately rising to the top of the FCC ranks.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Haider fondly remembers the close-knit community of Glodwick. “Growing up in Glodwick was good. The sense of community was unique. We all knew each other, and it was nice to have a supportive community,” he shared. His childhood was filled with memories of playing on the streets with cousins and friends, a time he cherishes as he prepares for even greater challenges.
Haider’s rise in MMA has been impressive. As a professional, he has won eight fights and lost only one. His latest victory, which earned him the middleweight title, came against a Brazilian opponent whom he defeated in the second round. His success in the Full Contact Contender league, which is funded by UFC Fight Pass, is just one step on his path toward UFC glory.
To date, Haider has competed in 16 fights, securing silver at the European level and a world bronze medal. With his next fight on the horizon, he hopes to soon transition to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he aims to establish himself as a global force in MMA.
Interestingly, Haider’s inspiration comes not from current MMA icons but from legends of the sport. “As an MMA fighter, people think I would look up to the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, but the first martial artist I loved is George St-Pierre. He was known as the ‘Perfect Fight Machine’ and was the welterweight world champion before winning the middleweight world title too. He is one of my favorite fighters,” Haider said.
His faith also plays a significant role in his life and career. “I feel like you go through phases in your life where you rely on your religion, especially in the fighting scene. If you have strong faith in God, you know you’re not truly alone,” he explained. This belief helps him stay grounded, reminding him that there is more to life than just fighting.
Haider’s message to young people is clear: “Pursue something you love, and it doesn’t have to be sports. When you truly love something, it is easier to get out of bed and pursue your dreams.” He is also candid about the challenges of being a professional fighter, noting that it is not as glamorous as it may seem.
His daily routine is grueling. He trains every day, often engaging in three sessions that include grappling and fitness training. Yet, this rigorous schedule has made him the first British-Pakistani champion in the world of MMA, and his ambition to win the world UFC title drives him forward.
His father, Wajid, is a constant source of support and motivation. “Haider has had a few setbacks, but he always comes back stronger,” Wajid said proudly. “I support Haider by taking him to training and providing him with emotional support and advice. We talk about his difficulties and how to improve his training.”
Together, they are working toward the ultimate goal of becoming UFC world champion. Wajid is confident that Haider will succeed, saying, “In one year, he will hopefully be established in the UFC. It won’t be easy, but everybody has to start somewhere. I’m really proud of him and I pray that he achieves his goal. May God keep him safe.”
