Since UFC 5 entered early access, fans in North America noticed a strong online presence woven into the game’s visuals. Hasbulla Magomedov, the Dagestan-born influencer known to followers as Hasbik, appeared as a visual element rather than a traditional playable character. Reputable gaming outlets confirmed his cameo in the in game visuals, marking another high profile crossover for the franchise. Online clips show Hasbik beside famous fighters Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev during arena sequences. He moves toward the fighters’ right as the action peaks and then settles in a front row spot outside the octagon to watch the confrontation. The blogger’s appearance in a playable fighter slot was not selectable and seems to function as a cosmetic cameo, highlighting a broader industry trend of celebrity appearances in sports simulations.
Hasbulla’s involvement with UFC titles isn’t new. In 2021, the influencer secured a deal with a major sports organization, and his likeness appeared in UFC 4 as part of cosmetic content. The Hasbulla Vanity Bundle offered a collection of stylistic items and appearances that let players customize characters without altering core gameplay mechanics. This approach reflects how publishers leverage recognizable personalities to deepen player immersion without changing the fundamental game design.
Early access to UFC 5 began in late 2023 for players who pre ordered the title, with a full launch following shortly after. The release widened availability to PlayStation 5 alongside Xbox Series X and S, expanding the game’s reach across North America and beyond and aligning with the growing audience for next gen consoles in these regions. The rollout illustrates a convergence between traditional sports media and interactive entertainment, where crossovers and influencer collaborations extend visibility and engagement across diverse gaming communities in Canada, the United States, and nearby markets. This trend underscores how celebrity partnerships help drive interest, discussion, and broader brand resonance in major markets across North America.
Beyond in game content, notes about storefront updates included the withdrawal of certain payment options in Turkish lira and Argentine pesos on Steam. Such regional adjustments reveal how publishers adapt currency support and storefront choices as online titles expand to serve global audiences. For North American players, these changes reflect a broader pattern of cross border branding and celebrity inclusions that accompany major sports titles today. Industry observers continue to monitor how celebrity cameos influence player interest, engagement, and the overall marketing narrative surrounding UFC 5, including the Hasbulla collaboration and its reception among fans and critics. Conversations about brand partnerships and player experience unfold across regions. It is evident that influencer involvement is becoming a more visible element of product storytelling in competitive gaming and sports simulations, shaping expectations for future crossovers and cosmetic ecosystems. The discussion is grounded in industry coverage and public reactions to Hasbulla’s UFC 5 cameo, illustrating a wider shift in how brands collaborate with prominent online figures to accompany major releases.