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Two Paths, One Mindset: Noubrain Supports MMA

Writer: Andrea Zelic
Andrea Zelic
Aug 17
3 min read

Hydroxytyrosol is a natural polyphenol found in olives that can cross the blood-brain barrier. Preclinical studies are investigating how its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may affect neurological stress and traumatic brain injury, commonly referred to as TBI.


This connection between brain health and a sport with an increased risk of head injuries is one of the reasons why Noubrain supports athletes such as Danielle Misteli and Alina Dalaslan.


An olive branch with ripe olives in the foreground, representing the natural source of hydroxytyrosol, and a glowing brain in the background, symbolizing its neuroprotective benefits. Scientific elements in the background indicate the product's research basis.

Key takeaways:


  • Noubrain supports the athletes Danielle Misteli and Alina Dalaslan.

  • Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is associated with an increased risk of head injuries and traumatic brain injury, or TBI.

  • Noubrain focuses on hydroxytyrosol, a natural polyphenol found in olives.

  • Preclinical research is investigating its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

  • The sponsorship brings together elite sport, prevention and responsible research.



Two Athletes, Two Unique Paths


Mixed Martial Arts requires technique, strength, endurance and mental resilience. Decisions must be made under intense pressure, while every fight is backed by many hours of preparation and consistent training.


Danielle Misteli and Alina Dalaslan embody these demands in very different ways.



Danielle Misteli: A New Path Knows No Age


Danielle Misteli at her most recent OKTAGON fight in Hanover, Germany.
Danielle Misteli at her most recent OKTAGON fight in Hanover, Germany.

Danielle Misteli began her professional MMA career at the age of 46. She first got into combat sports through a kickboxing trial session, later adding Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.


Today, she trains at Fight Industry, where she prepares for her fights.


Her fight name, “The Housewife”, comes from the Swiss German word “Huusfrau”, which she has tattooed across her knuckles. It reflects the different sides of her personality. Cooking, baking and knitting are not at odds with her role as a professional fighter.


Her unconventional path is what makes her story so compelling. Danielle stands for self-confidence, perseverance and the courage not to be limited by other people’s expectations.


Noubrain is represented on Fight Industry team shirts, supported Danielle at her most recent OKTAGON MMA fight and plans to continue supporting her on her sporting journey.



Alina Dalaslan: Talent and Consistent Work


Alina “Iron Fist” Dalaslan represents a new generation in European MMA. After achieving success as an amateur, she made the transition to professional competition and has continued to work consistently on her athletic development.


Her journey shows that talent alone is not enough. Every step forward requires discipline, structure and many hours of intensive training. Just as important is the willingness to learn from every fight and continue improving even after success.


Noubrain supported Alina as a sponsor for her fight on 31 January. This allowed us to accompany her through an important step in her sporting career and make a tangible contribution to her preparation and performance.


Alina combines athletic potential with a clear goal. She stands for focus, ambition and the determination to establish herself step by step at the highest level. We look forward to following her continued development and supporting her along the way.


Alina Dalaslan after her victory on January 31, 2026, in Stuttgart, Germany.
Alina Dalaslan after her victory on January 31, 2026, in Stuttgart, Germany.























Why Noubrain Supports MMA Athletes


Mixed Martial Arts places high demands on both body and mind. At the same time, repeated blows are associated with an increased risk of head injuries and concussions.


At Noubrain, we focus on hydroxytyrosol, a natural polyphenol found in olives. Preclinical research suggests that hydroxytyrosol may influence antioxidant and anti-inflammatory processes and could help make nerve cells more resilient to stress under certain conditions.


Our sponsorship reflects our interest in the connection between sport, neurological stress and responsible research. At the same time, we want to support Danielle Misteli and Alina Dalaslan on their sporting journeys and raise awareness of prevention, recovery and medical care in combat sports.



Into the Next Round Together


We look forward to continuing to support Danielle Misteli and Alina Dalaslan on their journeys.


Their stories stand for courage, discipline and continuous development. We are proud to support them along the way.


Follow Danielle Misteli and Alina Dalaslan on their channels and join us as they prepare for their next fights.






Author

Andrea Zelic holds an MSc in Business Administration with a specialization in Marketing from ZHAW and has many years of marketing experience across finance, IT, artificial intelligence and digital media. She also gained international experience in the United States and Canada and completed a MicroBachelors® in Neuroscience at Harvard. 

As co-founder of Noubrain, she combines her expertise in marketing and science communication to make complex topics related to hydroxytyrosol and brain health more accessible. Through her own Muay Thai training, she also has a personal connection to combat sports.


Dr. Mireia Sospedra Ramos

Andrea Zelic

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