UFC Manager Condemns Iran's Execution of 19-Year-Old Wrestler Saleh Mohammadi

Renowned UFC manager Ali Abdelaziz has taken a strong stand against the recent execution of 19‑year‑old Iranian wrestling champion Saleh Mohammadi, posting on X that “Islam does not agree with the execution of these young Muslim Iranian wrestlers. This is not what Islam represents. This is pure evil. No one should be executed, tortured, or harmed for expressing their opinion. These actions betray both the values of Islam and the basic principles of humanity.” Abdelaziz said no one should be harmed or killed for expressing an opinion, arguing the executions betray both Islamic values and basic human rights. Mohammadi was among three men publicly hanged by Iranian authorities after being convicted under controversial charges related to nationwide protests earlier this year. Human rights groups and international observers have condemned the executions, saying the trials were deeply flawed and politically motivated. Ali Abdelaziz/X Abdelaziz’s message reflects growing outrage within the global sports community over how Iran treats athletes and dissenters, urging respect for human dignity and freedom of expression. His words have resonated amid wider calls for accountability and protection of athletes caught in political struggles, reinforcing that sports figures can also be powerful voices against injustice. US–Iran–Israel War: Shiva Amini Condemns Iranian Regime As Athletes Face Repression Amid Saleh Mohammadi Execution & Controversy Over Women Footballers' Return Former Iranian national footballer Shiva Amini has strongly condemned the Iranian regime following the execution of 19-year-old wrestler Saleh Mohammadi. On X, Amini criticized how athletes are forced into hijabs and used for propaganda, denouncing international voices that normalize the regime’s actions. The controversy follows an incident during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, where members of the Iran women’s national football team refused to sing the national anthem in Australia, prompting fears of retaliation. Despite being offered humanitarian visas, Iranian players later chose to return home, highlighting the difficult choices athletes face under political pressure. These developments underscore the growing tension between sports, politics, and human rights in Iran, drawing global attention to the risks athletes encounter when challenging state expectations. Amini’s comments and the team’s experiences reflect ongoing struggles for freedom, safety, and dignity in Iranian sports.