In December 2020, NAIZA and DAR took a decisive step towards the development of domestic MMA. By signing a strategic agreement between the head of the league Nurbek Karabala and the founder of DAR Аlidar Utemuratov, they opened a new era for Kazakhstan’s mixed martial arts. The main goal was not only to develop fighters, but also to reach the world level with ambitious projects and high standards.

The year 2021 was a landmark year for NAIZA, as the league took a bold step by moving from Aktau to Almaty. This decision was the catalyst for even more dynamic growth, and that year saw as many as nine tournaments – a record for the league.

After the agreement with DAR, NAIZA gained a new impetus for development: tournaments became more popular, the level of broadcasting increased significantly, and the league itself began to play a key role in the development of Kazakhstani MMA, attracting attention not only in the country, but also abroad.

To support the development of new talent, NAIZA and DAR launched a project that brought together talented fighters from all over the country. The winners received grants for education and training, and after a while several of them became part of the NAIZA team, demonstrating high results in the arenas.

Among those who won titles at tournaments 28 through 36, it is worth noting such names as Fanil Rafikov, Zhuman Zhumabekov, Nikolay Samusev, Ildar Kudaibergenov and Alibi Idiris – these fighters became real stars of the league.

No less bright event was the NAIZA 33 tournament, where Serikbai Hodjabaev, overcoming the favorite Hamzat Dalgiev (former M-1 Challenge champion), won the victory, which caused a real delight among the fans. Also, a new project appeared on the horizon – former lightweight champion Asu Almabaev from DAR Team started the process of transitioning to the UFC, which was a landmark event for Kazakhstan MMA.

Every year NAIZA continues to gain momentum, opening new horizons for Kazakhstani fighters and attracting the attention of international fans of mixed martial arts.