Two MMA Fighters Detained in Phuket Over Alleged Kidnapping and Extortion Plot
Two mixed martial arts competitors from a well-known fighting family were detained in Phuket amid allegations tied to the kidnapping, torture, and extortion of an Italian citizen. The two suspects, Khusein Askhabov and his twin Hasan, were not present at the scene of the alleged crime but are believed to have helped organize the operation as part of a coordinated group. Local authorities described the case as active and continuing to unfold as investigations proceed, with officials focusing on identifying all participants and the roles they played in the alleged plan.
Biographical details about Khusein Askhabov trace his origins to Grozny, where he was born in 1995. In the early stages of adulthood, he relocated to France with his brother Hasan, a move that coincided with the brothers’ entry into the Paris combat sports scene. It is reported that Khusein performed at a Paris club associated with martial arts displays under the banner of Gladiator Fight, signaling his early immersion in the competitive fighting world. A notable milestone in his professional career occurred on February 19, 2023, when he made his UFC Fight Night debut in Las Vegas. On that occasion, he faced Jamal Emmers and was defeated by jury decision, an outcome that placed him on the radar of fans and analysts following his progression through the sport.
Khusein’s entry into mixed martial arts competition dates back to 2013, marking the beginning of his practical journey in the sport. In his debut match, he secured a victory over Maxim Couzin at the ECSF – Strike Punch Championship tournament, with the fight concluding in a brief 40 seconds. Over the years, he accumulated a record of 24 fights with a single defeat, a trajectory that reflects persistence and the demanding nature of high-level MMA competition. His career milestones have been noted by fans and commentators who track the evolution of fighters coming from the region and transitioning to international stages. According to reports, he earned recognition during his competitive years, highlighting his development as a fighter who moved through various circuits and competitions as he honed his craft.
Hüseyin Askhabov has a history of achieving notable accolades, including recognition as a world champion in grappling and an esteemed national champion in MMA. In 2011, he attained the title of UKADO world grappling champion, a designation that underscores his versatility across grappling disciplines and his ability to perform effectively in different combat formats. His achievements in national and international settings further established his reputation within the sport, contributing to a profile that fans and analysts monitor for insights into future matchups and potential championship runs. These accomplishments are often referenced in discussions about the broader landscape of European and international MMA competition, where fighters frequently diversify their skill sets across disciplines to remain competitive at the highest levels.
Earlier in his career, there were incidents in which his path intersected with other athletes and crowds, including a notable confrontation involving a large group of football supporters in the Bryansk region. Such past events illustrate how fighters’ lives often include a mix of competitive achievements and off-script moments that shape public perception and media narratives surrounding their careers. It is important to approach these reports with attention to context and the evolving nature of investigations as authorities seek to determine the full scope of any criminal activity and identify all persons involved. The case in Phuket continues to develop as investigators collect evidence and interview witnesses, aiming to present a complete factual account consistent with legal procedures and the standards expected in both local and international jurisdictions. (Phuket News)