Dark Matter Fighting Championship Canceled Amid Gangland Hit Fears, Former UFC Fighter Targeted
April 3, 2025
This intelligence is particularly alarming as Mokhtarian previously survived a targeted shooting in February 2024, when a gunman disguised as a delivery driver opened fire outside his gym.
Mokhtarian, who co-owns the Australian Top Team gym with his brother Ashkan, has faced scrutiny due to his brother's criminal background, including drug charges and a prior guilty plea for drug dealing.
The cancellation has sparked debate about the effectiveness of the justice system, particularly regarding the decision to grant bail to the alleged would-be assassin.
Authorities determined that hosting the event posed a serious risk to public safety, particularly given the credible intelligence indicating Mokhtarian is believed to be a target for criminal activity.
The Combat Sports Authority confirmed it refused to issue the necessary permit for the event, further complicating the promoter's efforts.
Concerns were not only for Mokhtarian but also for other fighters on the card, despite prior vetting by the NSW Combat Sports Authority.
The news of the cancellation was first reported by Sydney radio station 2GB, highlighting the ongoing tension surrounding Mokhtarian's safety and the event.
The situation has raised widespread concern within the MMA community regarding Mokhtarian's safety and the motives behind the threats against him.
Despite expressing his willingness to skip the event if it jeopardizes safety, Mokhtarian's presence was still a focal point for the event's planning.
The alleged attacker, a 21-year-old man, is currently on bail while facing attempted murder charges related to that incident.
The Dark Matter Fighting Championship event, originally set for April 19, 2025, in Warwick Farm, NSW, has been cancelled due to police concerns over a potential gangland assassination attempt on former UFC fighter Suman Mokhtarian.
Promoter Andrew Delmas expressed frustration over the cancellation, emphasizing the extensive preparation that went into organizing the event and his intention to work with police for a potential resolution.
Summary based on 8 sources
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Sources

The Sydney Morning Herald • Apr 2, 2025
Sydney MMA event cancelled over fears of alleged gangland hit on UFC star
Sports Illustrated • Apr 4, 2025
UFC cast-off reportedly targeted in alleged assassination plot