CULTURE — May 8, 2026

Afghan Fighter Wahidullah Nazand Set to Face Lorenzo Staropoli in Croatia

Afghan mixed martial artist Wahidullah Nazand will face experienced Italian fighter Lorenzo Staropoli in a 77-kilogram bout in Croatia. The match is viewed as a major professional test for Nazand as he continues his four-fight winning streak.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Afghanistan International2 min read

Afghan Fighter Wahidullah Nazand Set to Face Lorenzo Staropoli in Croatia
Image courtesy Afghanistan InternationalImage enhanced by AI for quality.

Afghan mixed martial artist Wahidullah Nazand is scheduled to compete against Italian veteran Lorenzo Staropoli in an upcoming bout in Croatia. The match will take place during the 30th event hosted by the Final Fight Championship organization and will be contested in the 77-kilogram weight class.

Nazand enters the contest with a professional record of 10 wins and two losses. He has secured victories in his last four appearances, a streak that has drawn attention from regional combat sports analysts. The upcoming matchup is widely regarded as a significant step in his career, offering a direct test against a highly experienced international opponent.

Staropoli brings a professional record of 13 wins and seven losses to the bout. His career includes appearances in major global promotions such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship and the Professional Fighters League. He also previously held the lightweight championship title in the ARES Fighting Championship. His background and ring experience are expected to present a substantial challenge for Nazand.

The event in Croatia will feature multiple bouts across various weight divisions, with the Nazand-Staropoli contest highlighted as a key fixture on the card. Promotional materials indicate that the fight will follow standard mixed martial arts regulations under the organization banner. Fans and analysts have noted that a victory for Nazand could significantly elevate his standing in European regional circuits and open pathways to higher-profile international promotions. Both athletes have been preparing at their respective training camps ahead of the scheduled weigh-ins and official fight night.

Read the original reporting at Afghanistan International

Reliability assessment

Single source provides concrete, checkable details (fighter names, professional records, organization FNC, weight class, location) about a scheduled public sporting event. No conflicting reports exist, and the specifics are publicly verifiable through official fight promotions.

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CultureWahidullah Nazand, Lorenzo Staropoli, FNC, Mixed Martial Arts, Croatia

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