Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree are both aware of the challenges involved in competing for a top position, and soon one of them might find themselves facing a harder journey back up the ranks.
For Hill, a former UFC champion now experiencing his first career losing streak, this Saturday’s UFC Baku main event offers a crucial chance to add another ranked opponent to his record. He aims to demonstrate that his noteworthy performances in recent championship losses to Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka reflect his true skill rather than just the outcomes of those matches.
Meanwhile, Rountree is eager to prove that his match against Pereira at UFC 307 was warranted, not merely a result of being the next fighter in line. The Ultimate Fighter 23 finalist has fought hard to achieve contender status, claiming five consecutive victories before pushing Pereira to the brink in a tough battle. Will he show that skill, or will Hill dominate and earn another title shot?
In the co-main event, veteran Rafael Fiziev finds himself in a precarious situation, facing the prospect of a four-fight losing streak. It has been nearly three years since his last win, hindered by a knee injury and losses to Justin Gaethje. He will defend his lightweight ranking against Ignacio Bahamondes, an ambitious contender with a mix of youth and experience.
Other notable fights on the main card include Curtis Blaydes taking on UFC newcomer Rizvan Kuniev, while former RIZIN and Bellator standout Tofiq Musayev makes his debut against Myktybek Orolbai. Additionally, Nazim Sadykhov will fight Nikolas Motta, and Muhammad Naimov aims to halt the progress of Bogdan Grad in the opening bout.
Event Details:
What: UFC Baku
Where: Baku Crystal Hall, Baku, Azerbaijan
When: Saturday, June 21. The preliminary card begins at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN+, followed by the main card at 3 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN+.
