Fiziev Stops Torres at UFC Baku; Magomedov Wins
The upcoming showdown between Rafael Fiziev and Manuel Torres in Baku has become one of the most compelling matchups on the UFC calendar. During media day, both fighters delivered revealing, emotionally charged interviews that showcased not only their preparation, but the personal motivations driving them toward fight night.
Rafael Fiziev: Calm, Confident, and Fighting at Home
A Look Back to Move Forward
Rafael Fiziev opened media day by reflecting on his past opponents, especially Justin Gaethje, whose grit and violence left a lasting impression on him. Fiziev spoke with respect, acknowledging that sharing the cage with Gaethje sharpened his own competitive edge and reinforced his hunger to evolve.
Prepared for Five Rounds of War
Fiziev emphasized his comfort with five‑round fights, explaining that the extended duration allows him to read opponents more deeply and adjust with precision. He expressed full confidence in his conditioning, his preparation, and his mental clarity heading into fight week.
Baku: More Than a Venue
For Fiziev, fighting in Baku is not just another assignment—it is a return to his roots. He spoke about the emotional weight of competing in his home city, referencing his family’s history and the sense of peace he feels stepping into an arena filled with familiar energy. The moment is personal, grounding, and motivating.
Thoughts on Conor McGregor
When asked about Conor McGregor, Fiziev acknowledged the Irish star’s impact on MMA but questioned how McGregor will fare after such a long layoff. Fiziev noted that today’s lightweight landscape is filled with young, active, and dangerous contenders—an environment that demands constant evolution.
Manuel Torres: Focused, Grateful, and Unshaken by the Moment
A Game Plan Without Distractions
Manuel Torres kept his message simple: he is here to win. He refused to entertain hypotheticals or predictions, instead emphasizing discipline, execution, and sticking to his strategy. Torres made it clear that he is not interested in theatrics—only performance.
Respect Without Intimidation
Torres spoke highly of Fiziev’s experience and skill, but he dismissed any notion that fighting in Fiziev’s home city adds pressure. According to Torres, the cage is the same no matter where it stands, and he is prepared to meet the challenge head‑on.
Motivation Fueled by Gratitude
Throughout his interview, Torres repeatedly expressed appreciation for his career, his supporters, and the warm reception he has received in Baku. He spoke with humility about the opportunity before him and the responsibility he feels to deliver a performance worthy of those who believe in him.
Two Fighters, Two Journeys, One Defining Night
Fiziev enters fight week with the weight and pride of a hometown crowd behind him. Torres arrives with a challenger’s hunger and a deep sense of gratitude. Their contrasting energies—Fiziev’s calm intensity and Torres’s grounded determination—set the stage for a compelling clash in Baku.
Both men are prepared. Both men are motivated. And when the cage door closes, only one will leave with the momentum that defines the next chapter of their career.
Sources
- UFC Media Day Interviews — Rafael Fiziev
- UFC Media Day Interviews — Manuel Torres
Article Tags
UFC, MMA, Rafael Fiziev, Manuel Torres, Baku, UFC Media Day, Lightweight Division, Fight Preview, Combat Sports, Mixed Martial Arts
Post-event update: UFC Baku
UFC Fight Night: Fiziev vs. Torres took place June 27, 2026, in Baku. Rafael Fiziev knocked out Manuel Torres at 0:15 of round two; Shara Magomedov defeated Michel Pereira by unanimous decision. Official main-card results.
Event result: At UFC Baku on June 27, 2026, Fiziev knocked out Torres at 0:15 of Round 2. Shara Magomedov defeated Michel Pereira by unanimous decision (29-28 on all three cards).
