Escape from Oppression
In the heart of East London, at the K.O. Combat Academy, the air is thick with the familiar scent of sweat and determination. Here, mixed martial arts (MMA) coach and professional fighter Pasha Rafiei, affectionately known as the ‘Persian Powerhouse,’ has rebuilt his life after a harrowing escape from Iran.
From Champion to Outcast
Born as Mohammad Hadi-Rafiei, Pasha was a celebrated MMA fighter in Iran, earning multiple medals on international platforms. His journey took a tumultuous turn in 2016 when he accused the Iranian Martial Arts Federation of corruption. This bold move led to severe repercussions, including a ban from training, especially after it was discovered he had been coaching female students—a practice prohibited under Sharia law.
A Fight for Freedom
In August 2018, Pasha participated in nationwide protests against Iran’s theocratic regime. His involvement resulted in a brutal arrest, during which he sustained severe injuries from police beatings. Fearing for his life, especially after his friend and fellow athlete Navid Afkari was executed under dubious charges, Pasha made the heart-wrenching decision to flee Iran with his wife, utilizing fake passports to secure their escape.
Trials in a Refugee Camp
The couple’s journey led them to a refugee camp on Greece’s Samos Island, where they endured nearly a year in squalid conditions. Despite the challenges, Pasha’s dedication to his craft remained unwavering. He improvised training equipment, fashioning a punching bag from stacked car tires hung on a tree, and maintained his fitness through beach runs and bodyweight exercises.
Rebuilding in London
Arriving in the UK at the end of 2020, Pasha found a new home at the K.O. Combat Academy in Bethnal Green. Starting as a volunteer, his expertise and passion quickly earned him a position as an MMA coach. He introduced structured MMA classes to the gym, building a dedicated following and fostering a sense of community among his students.
Championing Inclusivity and Empowerment
Pasha’s personal experiences have fueled his commitment to inclusivity. He offers self-defense classes tailored for LGBTQ+ individuals, aiming to empower them through martial arts. This dedication stems from his own journey and the challenges faced by those close to him.
Giving Back Through Coaching
Beyond the gym, Pasha volunteers with Ultra MMA London, an organization that has raised millions for Cancer Research UK. As the head coach, he provides participants with two months of free training, culminating in amateur fights that contribute to the charity’s fundraising efforts. Additionally, he mentors local youth, instilling confidence and discipline through martial arts.
Looking Ahead
Pasha continues to train rigorously, preparing for upcoming fights and further establishing his presence in the UK MMA scene. His journey from persecution to empowerment serves as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of martial arts.Do follow him on Instagram.
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