An MMA event in Sydney later this month has been called off based on police recommendations over concerns a high-profile figure in the sport could be assassinated.
Suman Mokhtarian has already survived one alleged gangland hit, when a gunman opened fire outside his gym in Wentworthville.
The former UFC fighter and now coach says he has been given no warning about the threat against his life by police.
The promoter of the event at Warwick Farm in two weeks said Mokhtarian was never going to attend the event and it should go ahead.
“To go from having a promotion to actually nothing is a little wild, in my opinion,” promoter Andrew Delmas said.
Up-and-coming fighters are also disappointed the event has been cancelled.
“These opportunities are very valuable for us fighters, because we get to fight in front of our home fans, especially in Sydney,” MMA fighter Farhood Khalatbar said.
Police said they gave a recommendation to the Combat Sports Authority that the event should not proceed based on an alleged threat to life. The Combat Sports Authority accepted that recommendation and cancelled the Warwick Farm event.
