Full Breakdown
Rafael Fiziev Credits Justin Gaethje’s Upset for Renewed Confidence Ahead of Knockout Win at UFC Baku
6/29/2026, 8:57:46 AM
Fiziev KO’s Manuel Torres at UFC Baku
On June 27, 2026, No. 12 lightweight Rafael Fiziev headlined UFC Baku at Azerbaijan’s National Gymnastics Arena, knocking out Manuel Torres in the second round with a spinning wheel kick and punches. It was his first knockout since 2022 and his first win after a four-loss streak.
From Slump to Motivation
Entering the bout, Fiziev had lost four of his last five fights, including two decision defeats to former opponent Justin Gaethje, describing a “deep slump” and loss of self-belief. He said the catalyst for his turnaround was seeing Gaethje’s historic lightweight title upset over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 two weeks earlier.
Primary Figures
- Rafael Fiziev – No. 12 lightweight, aiming to re-establish himself among the division’s elite.
- Justin Gaethje – UFC lightweight champion whose Topuria win inspired Fiziev.
- Manuel Torres – Contender with early-round finishing power, defeated by Fiziev.
- Charles Oliveira – Former lightweight champion, potential BMF-title opponent.
Key Numbers
- Ranking: #12 lightweight.
- Knockout: First KO since 2022 via spinning wheel kick.
- Recent record: Four losses in five fights before UFC Baku.
- Prior encounters: Two decision losses to Gaethje.
- Event: Main-event slot at UFC Baku, his first after a knockout loss to Mauricio Ruffy.
Official Statements
In a post-fight interview on UFC on Paramount+, Fiziev credited Gaethje’s performance with restoring his confidence, saying the win “gave me a lot of motivation because I didn’t believe in myself” and that he “believed in my power because of this guy.” He also voiced interest in a BMF-title fight with Charles Oliveira, recalling their cancelled UFC São Paulo bout.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Justin, man, bro, you have no idea how much you motivated me,” — Rafael Fiziev, UFC lightweight
- “I wish you jumped into my body and felt how much I love you after your performance, bro.” — Rafael Fiziev
- “When I stepped in the cage tonight, I believed in my power because of this guy.” — Rafael Fiziev
- “Thanks, bro.” — Rafael Fiziev
Impact on Lightweight Division
Fiziev’s knockout repositions him as a viable contender for high-profile fights, potentially accelerating his climb toward title contention. Gaethje’s public endorsement highlights the champion’s influence on peers and may affect UFC matchmaking, especially regarding future lightweight title defenses and BMF-title opportunities.
What’s Next
Fiziev has signaled a desire to face Charles Oliveira for the BMF title, a bout previously scrapped due to injury. Gaethje is expected to pursue a rematch with Oliveira, and the lightweight rankings will adjust to reflect Fiziev’s resurgence. Upcoming UFC events will determine if these matchups materialize.
