CALGARY – How did Ali Charkie find mixed martial arts?

“MMA found me,” the fast-rising Calgary fighter clarifies with a chuckle. “I’ve been an athlete my entire life. I’ve always loved sports. I’ve always loved training. Growing up, I was always that guy fighting.

Charkie began training as a mixed martial artist in 2018. The decision to focus his energy on MMA, he says, was a life-changing moment.

“I believe I’d probably be in jail for fighting if I didn’t have MMA in my life, 100-percent,” he says.

It’s not that Charkie is a bad guy.

“I’ve just always liked to fight, you know?”

Instead of serving time, Charkie is establishing himself as a major prospect to watch in the Unified MMA cage. He’s already fought three times since his successful pro debut at Unified 40. He hunts for his third victory in the Unified MMA cage against Ontario’s Chris Lee Byrne (5-1) at Unified 44 on May 6 in Calgary, LIVE on UFC Fight Pass.

Charkie is also establishing himself as a fan-favourite fighter under the Unified MMA banner, and in his hometown Stampede City.

“I always believed that I could be the best at whatever I put my mind to, but I never expected to have so many people stand behind me. My community has really gotten behind me,” he says. “It’s very humbling to have people believe in me as much as I believe in myself. 

For his part, Charkie says he’s just getting started.

“Most fighters will tell you their goal is to get to the UFC and have that belt around their waist. Of course, I believe I can get there if I continue to do the right things,” he says. “But, more than that, I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity and platform to inspire others. If my mission is to inspire people and push them to be better, then I’m happy with that. I’ll be a better man with that. I’ll sleep better at night knowing that.”

ABOUT UNIFIED MMA

Unified MMA is Canada’s leading mixed martial arts promotion, showcasing the country’s top-ranked fighters, LIVE on UFC Fight Pass. The organization has successfully promoted 43 events since it was founded in 2009, and has propelled several athletes to the UFC’s Octagon.