Fans witnessed a gripping clash between two of the most exciting strikers in the UFC lightweight division at UFC Baku. The co-main event featured Rafael Fiziev, ranked #11, facing off against Ignacio Bahamondes. This fight marked the UFC's debut in Azerbaijan, making it a significant occasion for both fighters and the promotion.
Rafael Fiziev, with a professional record of 12 wins and 4 losses, entered the octagon in Azerbaijan ready to make a statement. After enjoying an impressive six-fight win streak, which included victories against notable opponents like Rafael dos Anjos, Brad Riddell, and Renato Moicano, Fiziev's momentum had taken a hit. He arrived at this bout struggling with a three-fight losing streak, having faced defeats against elite contenders Justin Gaethje and Mateusz Gamrot. Losing to Bahamondes, a rising star, could severely dent Fiziev's aspirations for a title shot in the future.
Ignacio Bahamondes came into this matchup with a strong UFC record of 17 wins and 5 losses and riding a three-fight win streak. His previous bout at UFC 313 showcased his skills, where he secured an impressive submission victory over Jalin Turner, earning him the opportunity to face Fiziev in the co-main event.
The fight began with Bahamondes utilizing his reach and front kicks to establish distance. Both fighters struggled to find their rhythm in the opening round, with Fiziev pressing forward while Bahamondes looked to mitigate his advances. As the round progressed near the two-minute mark, the action intensified, resulting in a furious exchange where Fiziev landed significant strikes to the body. Both fighters switched stances, searching for advantages until Bahamondes delivered a spinning side kick, while Fiziev responded with a powerful right hand.
In Round 2, the action continued as Bahamondes used his length to land kicks and combinations. He attempted a takedown, but Fiziev's solid takedown defense thwarted that effort. Despite several flashy spinning kick attempts from Bahamondes, Fiziev remained evasive, navigating through the strikes expertly. After landing a kick, Fiziev countered with his own series of strikes, showcasing his powerful combinations. A takedown attempt from Fiziev was successful, followed by a brief struggle, where Bahamondes attempted a guillotine choke that fizzled out. The round concluded dramatically as Fiziev dropped Bahamondes with a right hand just before the bell.
Entering the final round, Bahamondes came out with urgency, launching combinations and applying pressure on Fiziev. Throughout the fight, Fiziev adopted a counter-strategy, allowing Bahamondes to initiate attacks. Bahamondes found some success with two sharp 1-2 combinations. A takedown attempt by Bahamondes led to him pulling guard, but Fiziev defended well, responding with an effective combo. Bahamondes continued to showcase his determination by clinching and pushing Fiziev against the fence, but again, he failed to secure a takedown. Realizing the urgency, Fiziev struck back with another takedown attempt, effectively controlling the fight until the end.
The official result declared Rafael Fiziev the winner by unanimous decision with all judges scoring the fight 30-27. This victory allows Fiziev to reclaim momentum in the lightweight division while continuing Bahamondes' journey towards elite status.
