As mixed martial arts continues to grow the desire to see two fighters square off can rise also, but while some can do the talking on the mic, many put their trust in others when it comes to the contracts.
Ali Abdelaziz has often been the recipient of criticism for his role behind the scenes, but how much of a role does he play in the MMA world?
The Egyptian manager fronts Dominance MMA, an American based agency which boasts a flurry of talent including Khabib Nurmagmedov, Henry Cejudo, Kamaru Usman and Justin Gaethje; all champions in their respective divisions, as well many notable contenders.
Outside the UFC, 2019 PFL winners Kayala Harrison and Lance Palmer are represented by the Egyptian's team, showing that their eyes are not limited to just one promotion.
While the representation of Abdelaziz will come at a price, his reputation has saw him receive huge praise from some of his signed stars including Cejudo who said their partnership "allows events" to be created outside the help of the UFC.
Kelvin Gastelum voiced his previous concerns over getting into business with Ali saying "I was not going to sign with Ali. I thought he had bad habits."
"He is actually an amazing guy. A lot of us (his fighters) are real appreciative of him, he has done a lot for us in our careers."
Upon signing Abdelaziz's company claim to operate under a three step plan proposal for fighters which is to:
Build relationships: "Dominance MMA Management is proud of the relationships it has built thus far. Our clients are like family to us."
Secure Max Contracts: "Whether it is with the UFC, WSOF, or any other professional organization, our years of experience in the industry enable us to secure max contracts for all of our fighters."
Earn Sponsorships: "We leverage data to secure sponsorship deals for our fighters. We help our clients with content distribution and brand partnerships."
The profile of the athlete is largely dependent on their success in the Octagon but the connection to outside media as well as lucrative sponsorships is a priceless asset in an industry where many are simply underpaid, even at the highest level.
Many fighters in and around the main event scene have praised Ali for seeking an improved contract as well as maintaining a solid relationship with others, even training with Usman on occasion - displaying a unique level of trust that very few managers have gained.
Dominance MMA boast a number of connections on their website including: Reebok, Everlast, Metro CPS, Onnit & Body Armor, with the likelihood of smaller connections such as meal prepping developed on a fighter-per-fighter basis.
Conor McGregor is the most high profile performer within the Ultimate Fighting Championship and until recently looked as if he held the most coveted deck at the table - now following the defeat of Tony Ferguson at UFC 249, it is unlikely that the Irishman will have a shot at the lightweight championship till at least 2021.
The 155lbs title is currently held by Nurmagomedov with Gaethje the no.1 contender, both fighters are managed by Abdelaziz, as the former 'Double Champ' looked to hold all the cards, thanks to the President of Dominance MMA he has been left with just the Joker.
While acting as an intermediary, the management company serves a purpose to fighters that has long since been ignored by mainstream Martial Arts promotions - a union (of sorts).
During the Coronavirus outbreak, Abdelaziz and co. represented a strong group of fighters that could have thrown doubt into a potential UFC event taking place, should that have been required.
With 60 fighters also contracted to the Dana White managed company, it would have presented a major problem if those signed voiced concerns over safety; thankfully this issue was one that never arose.
Agents in other sports have often been heralded as a major negative aspect but as yet, Abdelaziz and co. have established themselves as a positive influence and a brand any fighter would be lucky to be partnered with.
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