Berlin, 08.10.2026 – ProvenExpert is becoming a sponsor of MMA fighter Deniz “El Pistolero” Ilbay. Ilbay first made a name for himself as a professional boxer before beginning his MMA career in 2021. He now competes in the featherweight division at OKTAGON MMA and trains at UFD Gym in Düsseldorf.
His nickname dates back to his boxing days: “El Pistolero” refers to the speed of his punches. Moving into MMA meant building new skills alongside the strengths he had developed in the boxing ring – a challenge that continues to shape his career.
“I used to box myself, and I still follow combat sports closely,” says Remo Fyda, CEO of ProvenExpert. “Deniz brings his own style from boxing and took on the challenge of competing in a new discipline. I find that journey fascinating. That’s why I’m pleased we can support him as he continues to develop.”
His move into MMA started in 2020. During COVID restrictions, boxing had pretty much come to a standstill, but Deniz wanted to stay active – and MMA fights were still happening. After putting a lot of time and energy into the new discipline, he wanted to see just how far he could take it.
“My dad barely spoke to me for almost three weeks because he wasn’t exactly thrilled about the switch,” Deniz admits. “But once he saw that I had real talent in this other discipline too, he couldn’t help but support me.”
By sponsoring Ilbay, ProvenExpert is expanding its involvement in sports to include an MMA fighter. The company is also a partner of Eisbären Berlin. While that partnership is built around a club and its fans, this collaboration follows the journey of an individual athlete.
“With the Eisbären, we’ve seen how strongly fans connect with a club. With Deniz, people follow the story of one athlete,” says Fyda. “That makes it even more exciting for us to watch his journey up close from here.”
About Deniz Ilbay
Deniz “El Pistolero” Ilbay is a former professional boxer who began his MMA career in 2021. He competes in OKTAGON MMA’s featherweight division and trains at UFD Gym in Düsseldorf.
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