Rafael Fiziev will face Manuel Torres on June 27, 2026, at UFC Baku, a critical matchup for Fiziev’s career. The event takes place at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku, Azerbaijan.
What happened
Rafael Fiziev seeks to regain momentum in his career by competing against Manuel Torres, who has secured two consecutive victories. Fiziev, a former top lightweight contender, looks to rebound from a knockout loss to Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 325. He has won only once in his last five fights, making this matchup vital.
According to MMA Fighting, a failure to win could mark the end of Fiziev’s time as a UFC headline fighter.
Why it matters
The fight against Torres holds significant implications for Fiziev’s future in the lightweight division. A loss could force him to reconsider his role within the UFC, where fan engagement and performance are crucial for fighter contracts. This matchup not only impacts Fiziev’s career trajectory but also underscores the competitive landscape of the lightweight class.
Background
Fiziev’s recent performance has raised concerns following a loss to Mauricio Ruffy on May 20, 2026. Once a promising contender, his struggle has been evident in his record. Torres, who started his career through Dana White’s Contender Series in 2021, has emerged as a serious competitor, complicating Fiziev’s quest to climb the lightweight rankings.
What's next
The event will begin with preliminary fights at 9 a.m. ET, followed by the main card at 12 p.m. ET. The entire event will be available for streaming on Paramount+.
Frequently asked questions
When is UFC Baku?
UFC Baku is scheduled for June 27, 2026.
What time does the main card start?
The main card starts at 12 p.m. ET.
Related coverage on CR Today
Sources
- CR Today — The Best of Rafael Fiziev and Manuel Torres | UFC Baku (accessed 2026-06-27)
