Chaldean Contender
Bashi gives “all glory to God” after his win in the Dana White Contender Series.
Austin Bashi is the next best thing in mixed martial arts
By Sarah Kittle
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has a new superstar in Austin Bashi. Bashi, a 23-year-old Chaldean from West Bloomfield Township, won his first national fight in the Dana White Contender Series this past September, earning himself a UFC contract.
Bashi’s journey in mixed martial arts (MMA) has been closely followed by many in the Chaldean community. He began training at Warrior Way Martial Arts at the age of eight, encouraged by his cousin Chris Abro. Turning professional at 19, Bashi started his career with the Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC) before making a name for himself in the Lights Out Fighting Championship, where he became a two-time Bantamweight Champion.
With an impressive professional MMA record of 13 wins, 0 losses, and 0 draws, Bashi currently boasts a streak of 15 consecutive victories. His foundation in wrestling, which he pursued throughout high school, combined with exceptional cardio fitness, makes him a formidable opponent who can wear down challengers. Observers note that his striking skills continue to improve with each fight.
Regionally, Bashi ranks as the eighth-best MMA fighter in North America. According to official statistics, of his 13 wins, three were by knockout (23%), five by submission (38%), and five by decision (38%).
In an April 2023 article titled “Mega Prospect Austin Bashi Finally Ready for UFC Call Up,” UFC News writer Alexander Behunin labeled Bashi as “the best prospect in the United States.” Although he qualified for the UFC in 2022, Bashi opted to gain more experience before making the jump to the big leagues.
The UFC had its eyes on Bashi for several years, but it was a strategic decision by him and his team to wait for the right moment. Following his victory over former UFC fighter Askar Askar at Lights Out Championship 13, Bashi felt ready to make his UFC debut.
“After all of those tough fights I’ve had, I’m ready for the show,” Bashi said at the time. “Ideally, it is straight to UFC, but if I can’t get that, I’ll settle for Contender Series.” He “settled” for Dana White’s Contender Series and won by submission with a rear naked choke move against opponent Dorian Ramos in the second round.
“For me, it’s about getting there, staying there, and being the best,” Bashi remarked when discussing his journey to the UFC.
Did Bashi have any special preparation for that bout? No, it was the same groundwork and training leading up to this fight as it had been for the 12 previous. Not to say that it wasn’t a big fight, perhaps the most important of his career.
“I’ve been dreaming of this my whole life,” said Bashi. “Being able to fight in front of Dana White with millions watching around the world, it felt really nice.”
Millions watched Bashi fight, and then give all glory to God when he won. That is how he plans to use his fame and publicity—to promote his personal lord and savior, Jesus Christ. His coaches would describe him as hardworking and humble, he says.
Although Bashi spends 8-10 hours a day training at the gym, he says he prays daily; one might even say he is a prayer warrior. Faith and discipline are his basic tenets, and his focus is always on “the next thing.”
As the youngest of 4 children, Austin is making his older siblings Mary, Alan, and Avan proud along with his parents, Johnny and Ilham. When asked about his plans for the future, he replies that he doesn’t think that far ahead, and he thinks that gives him an advantage over other fighters who may get distracted by what’s coming up. “All I really do is train, eat, and sleep,” he says. “I’ll be doing it until I reach what I want in life, and that’s UFC gold.” In his limited free time, he likes to hang out with family and friends. Having trained for nearly 15 years with the same team and coach, he values the consistency and support that has helped keep him grounded. “I’ll be with this team for life, until the day I die,” he affirmed in a recent interview on Civic Center TV.
Bashi is eagerly anticipating his UFC debut, which he hopes will take place in December or January. He aims to fight three to four times a year, with “one more for the year being ideal.” As he prepares for this next chapter in his career, the Chaldean community and MMA fans alike are excited to see what the future holds for this rising star.