Rafael Fiziev vs. Manuel Torres at UFC Baku Main Card

UFC Baku will host a compelling main card on June 27, 2026, in Azerbaijan. The event features top contenders Rafael Fiziev and Manuel Torres, set to impact the lightweight division.

What happened

UFC Baku will present a main card of 13 fights. The preliminary bouts begin at 9 a.m. ET, with the main event slated for noon ET. U.S. viewers can watch live on Paramount Plus.

The main event highlights No. 11 ranked Rafael Fiziev (13-5 MMA, 7-5 UFC) against No. 15 ranked Manuel Torres (17-3 MMA, 5-1 UFC). Fiziev seeks entry into the lightweight top 10, but his recent record of 1-4 raises doubts about his prospects. “If he is to break through to the top 10, just winning may not be enough,” an unnamed source stated.

In the co-main event, Shara Magomedov (16-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC) faces Michel Pereira (34-14, 2 NC MMA, 10-5 UFC), who returns after an eleven-month hiatus.

Why it matters

The outcomes of these ranked matchups could significantly affect the lightweight division landscape. A victory for Fiziev or Torres might position either fighter closer to title contention, while Magomedov and Pereira aim to reestablish themselves in a competitive field.

Background

UFC Baku made its inaugural appearance last year, generating enthusiasm for the sport in Azerbaijan. The organization initially introduced the region to mixed martial arts on May 20, 2026, setting the stage for this year’s event.

Fiziev’s recent performance included a knockout loss to Mauricio Ruffy on January 31, 2026, during UFC 325. Conversely, Torres enjoyed success with a first-round knockout against Grant Dawson on December 6, 2025.

What's next

Following UFC Baku, the promotion will take a break during the Fourth of July holiday. Fans can expect a new schedule of events following this weekend’s fights.