Anti-Albanian chants at UFC Belgrade, Dennis Buzukja met with offensive chants and Serbian nationalist symbols

The atmosphere at the UFC event in Belgrade became tense even before one of Saturday’s bouts began, as American fighter of Albanian origin Dennis Buzukja was met with anti-Albanian chants from some fans in the stands.

As he was entering the venue where the fight was to take place, some members of the crowd responded with offensive chants and nationalist slogans. Among them were chants of “Kill, kill the Albanians,” creating a tense atmosphere before the bout began. Meanwhile, Buzukja entered the arena carrying the Albanian red-and-black flag.

The Albanian-origin fighter was also met with nationalist symbols and hostile behavior as he made his way into the arena.

In the octagon, Buzukja faced Serbian fighter Bogdan Grad in the featherweight division. After a tough bout, the victory was awarded to Grad, while the home crowd enthusiastically celebrated his win.