Rafael Fiziev vs. Ignacio Bahamondes Announced as Co-Main Event for UFC Baku Card

Rafael Fiziev vs. Ignacio Bahamondes has been officially announced as the co-main event for UFC Baku, taking place on June 21 at Baku Crystal Hall. This matchup features Azerbaijani fighter Fiziev returning to compete in front of a home crowd, adding significance to the promotion’s debut in Azerbaijan. Bahamondes, with an impressive record, brings an exciting challenge for Fiziev and promises a high-level lightweight battle.

UFC fans are anticipating this event not only for the main card but also for the energy that Fiziev’s homecoming is expected to generate. The organization’s first event in Baku brings increased attention to the region’s growing MMA scene and sets the stage for a memorable evening.

Rafael Fiziev vs. Ignacio Bahamondes Co-Main Event Overview

Rafael Fiziev will face Ignacio Bahamondes in a co-main event that is drawing significant attention. This bout is not only important for both fighters’ careers but also marks a milestone for UFC’s debut in Azerbaijan.

Official Fight Announcement and Date

The fight between Rafael Fiziev and Ignacio Bahamondes was officially announced by the UFC and several respected sports outlets on April 25, 2025. Both fighters are set to compete as the co-main event for UFC Baku. Fiziev brings a record of 12-4, while Bahamondes holds a record of 17-5.

The event is scheduled for June 21, 2025. This marks Fiziev’s first fight since 2022, making his return highly anticipated by MMA fans and analysts. Bahamondes is known for his exciting style and will look to capitalize on this high-profile opportunity.

For further confirmation and context, detailed fight booking discussions can be found on MMA Fighting, Sportsnet, and UFC’s official website, as well as reputable MMA news platforms such as Sherdog and MMA Junkie. The matchup will take place under the UFC on ABC 8 banner.

Significance for UFC Baku Card

This co-main event is notable as it coincides with UFC’s first-ever event in Azerbaijan, giving it historical significance. The card is particularly meaningful for Fiziev, who represents Azerbaijan on the world stage. A strong performance would resonate with local and regional fight fans.

For the UFC, this booking demonstrates a strategic move to engage the growing MMA fanbase in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus region. Bringing a homegrown star like Fiziev to headline alongside Bahamondes increases local interest and potential ticket sales. Bahamondes, a rising contender from Chile, brings his own international appeal to the matchup.

The result of this fight may influence each fighter’s position in the lightweight rankings. The card as a whole gains importance due to its pioneering location, and Fiziev vs. Bahamondes provides a compelling storyline for both national pride and divisional impact.

Location and Event Details

UFC Baku takes place at the Baku Crystal Hall, a modern multi-purpose arena in Azerbaijan’s capital. The venue is known for hosting large-scale sporting and entertainment events. Its selection underlines the significance UFC is placing on expanding its footprint into new international markets.

The event is scheduled for June 21, 2025, and will run under the UFC on ABC 8 designation. Doors are expected to open several hours before the first prelim, and local time scheduling ensures optimal exposure for fans in Azerbaijan and neighboring regions.

With the co-main event set between Fiziev and Bahamondes, Baku Crystal Hall is expected to welcome a capacity crowd. For further event specifics such as seating, ticket sales, and broadcast details, fans can visit the official UFC page or consult platforms like MMA Fighting and Sherdog.

Fighter Profiles and Matchup Analysis

Rafael Fiziev brings established top-15 experience and world-class striking to the first UFC event in Baku. Ignacio Bahamondes enters with momentum, dynamic kickboxing, and an opportunity to break into the lightweight rankings.

Rafael Fiziev: Career Highlights

Rafael Fiziev holds a professional MMA record of 12-4 and is ranked in the lightweight top 15. Fiziev is known for his elite Muay Thai background, explosive speed, and technical striking. He has secured wins over established names like Rafael dos Anjos and Brad Riddell, which solidified his reputation in the division.

Fiziev is admired for his defensive head movement and ability to counter-attack with precision. He’s earned several post-fight bonuses and delivered some of the division’s most memorable moments, such as his spinning wheel kick knockout against Riddell. His run in the UFC has featured battles against top contenders, showcasing resilience after setbacks and quick rebounds with dominant performances.

His experience against higher-ranked opposition and fighting in front of a home crowd in Baku gives Fiziev a potential psychological edge.

Ignacio Bahamondes: Rising Contender

Ignacio Bahamondes enters the matchup with a 17-5 record and six UFC wins. He is recognized for his height (6’3”) and reach advantage, making him a unique striker in the lightweight class. Bahamondes utilizes a diverse kicking arsenal and has built a reputation for dynamic finishes.

He had a breakthrough moment with a highlight-reel spinning wheel kick knockout of Roosevelt Roberts. Bahamondes maintains a high strike volume, often outworking opponents at range. His recent run in the UFC includes a series of victories that have brought him to the edge of the lightweight top 15.

Bahamondes, still just 27 years old, brings significant upside and hunger for a signature win. His striking style promises an entertaining and high-paced bout, putting pressure on Fiziev with youth and reach.

Key Factors and Fighting Styles

Fiziev’s advantages:

• Elite Muay Thai honed in Thailand

• Precise counters and powerful body kicks

• Strong defensive movement

• Experience against top-ranked opposition

Bahamondes’ strengths:

• Exceptional height and reach for lightweight

• Long-range combinations and quick, high kicks

• Relentless pressure and pace

• Creativity in setups and finishing strikes

This matchup is likely to stay on the feet. Fiziev prefers pocket exchanges and sharp counters, while Bahamondes will use range and frequent kicks. The reach disparity and ability to manage distance are critical, with Bahamondes likely trying to keep Fiziev on the outside. Defensive durability and cardio may decide the later rounds if neither fighter scores an early finish.

Potential Impact on Lightweight Division

A win for Fiziev could reassert his top-15 status and put him in line for higher-ranked opponents, especially since he will be competing in front of a supportive Baku crowd during the UFC’s debut in A?zerbaijan. His performance may also enhance his appeal for main event slots and title contention talks.

For Bahamondes, this fight represents an opportunity to enter the lightweight rankings for the first time and announce himself as a serious threat. A victory would be his most significant to date, establishing credibility by defeating a top-15 opponent. Both fighters are known for exciting styles, so their bout has the potential to influence matchmaking and divisional storylines throughout 2025.