Ex-UFC Fighter’s Ties to Kinahan Cartel and Iranian Sanctions Emerge
Recent investigations have revealed connections between former UFC fighter Mounir “The Sniper” Lazzez and the Kinahan Organized Crime Group, as well as potential links to financial dealings that aided the Iranian regime. The findings, a collaboration between Bellingcat and The Sunday Times, raise serious questions about the extent of the cartel’s reach and its continued operation despite international sanctions.
Images Link Lazzez to Kinahan Leaders
Photographs taken during the 971 Fighting Championship in Dubai last June display Lazzez interacting with Christy and Daniel Kinahan, both wanted cartel leaders. Lazzez is seen speaking with both men, who were seated in VIP areas. A high-resolution image of Lazzez with Daniel Kinahan was found on a photographer’s website and another appeared on a spectator’s Instagram post. He was also visible in the official live-stream of the event, at one point tapping Christy Kinahan on the arm.
From MMA to Maritime Deals: A Shifting Landscape
Lazzez’s involvement extends beyond combat sports. Documents uncovered by Bellingcat link the 38-year-old to multimillion-dollar shipping deals orchestrated through companies registered in secrecy jurisdictions. These deals involved crude oil tankers that were later sanctioned by the US government for assisting Iran.
The Kinahan Cartel’s Continued Operations
The Kinahan cartel, despite facing sanctions since April 2022, continues to operate with apparent impunity. Christy Kinahan, Daniel Kinahan, and Christopher Jr. Remain wanted by law enforcement globally. The cartel is known for drug trafficking and organized crime, with an estimated worth of €1.5 billion.
A History of Association: Lazzez and Daniel Kinahan
Lazzez has publicly expressed support for Daniel Kinahan, describing him as a “good friend, brother and advisor.” He even thanked Kinahan from inside the cage after a win in Las Vegas in 2022, stating he wouldn’t be where he was without him. Prior to the sanctions, Lazzez was represented by MTK Global, a sports management company co-founded by Daniel Kinahan.
Recent Relocation and New Ventures
Lazzez recently relocated to Italy, where he is now offering personal training sessions. He had previously lived in Dubai since approximately 2011 and was a part-owner of the 971 MMA & Fitness Academy. He launched the 971 Fighting Championship in 2024, but his involvement with the gym ended in October 2025.
Connections to a Major Cocaine Seizure
The companies used in the oil tanker deals – Dragon Road Limited and Faith Enterprise Limited – were headquartered at an address also used by Matthew Maritime Inc, the owner of the MV Matthew. This vessel was seized off the Irish coast in September 2023 carrying over two tonnes of cocaine worth €157 million, the largest drug seizure in Irish history. The operation was reportedly linked to the Kinahans and the Colombian Clan del Golfo, with potential involvement from Hezbollah and the Iranian government.
FAQ
Q: What is the Kinahan cartel?
A: The Kinahan Organized Crime Group is a drug trafficking and organized crime syndicate wanted by law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Q: What is Mounir Lazzez’s connection to the Kinahan cartel?
A: Photographs and statements show Lazzez interacting with and publicly supporting Daniel and Christy Kinahan.
Q: What are the allegations regarding Lazzez’s business dealings?
A: Lazzez was linked to multimillion-dollar shipping deals involving oil tankers later sanctioned for aiding the Iranian regime.
Q: Where is Mounir Lazzez currently located?
A: Lazzez has relocated to Italy and is offering personal training services.
Did you recognize? The MV Matthew, seized with over two tonnes of cocaine, was linked to the same address as companies involved in Lazzez’s shipping deals.
Pro Tip: Open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques, like those used by Bellingcat, are increasingly crucial in uncovering illicit financial networks.
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