In a technical clash between two striking specialists, Rafael Fiziev prevailed over Ignacio Bahamondes and took the victory by decision at UFC Baku , this Saturday (21), in Azerbaijan. Even against a dangerous opponent at long range, the Kyrgyz showed tactical intelligence, alternating good moments in striking with takedowns at the right moments to secure an advantage in the rounds. He overcame his rival by unanimous decision of the judges.
With the support of the local crowd, Fiziev imposed rhythm and precision, while the Chilean showed flashes of aggression, but was unable to turn the situation around on the ground. Ranked 11th, the fighter has a record of 13 wins and four losses and ended an uncomfortable run of three fights without a win.
Bahamondes will need to put together a new sequence within Dana White's company. The Chilean has a record of 17 positive results and six defeats.
Fiziev 'confuses' Bahamondes and uses strategy to make the public happy in Azerbaijan
Two striking fighters, Fiziev and Bahamondes, made their credentials count. Both athletes had good moments, especially with kicks to the waist and frequent changes of stance.
The second round, on the other hand, saw Ignacio trying to take the fight to the ground and letting his game loose. The Chilean focused on long range and high kicks. Rafael, on the other hand, heard the crowd cheering his name, but had difficulty letting his game loose, even though he was perfectly reading his opponent's attempts. With the round even, the 'Ataman' invested in two takedowns in search of points.
In the last round, Bahamondes tried to take him down, but Fiziev still managed to defend himself. Azuri, in turn, had the support of the crowd in Baku to work on his moves. The final minute was intense, but with Rafael's expertise, he took the fight down once again. Ignacio, even on the bottom, acted and threw elbows.
Even with a closed face, Curtis Blaydes surpasses rookie and maintains position in the ranking
Even with a serious expression, Curtis Blaydes surpasses the newcomer and maintains his position in the ranking. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC News
Curtis Blaydes needed to rely on experience and strategy to emerge victorious against Rizvan Kuniev . Even with both eyes completely closed after suffering hard blows in the striking exchanges, the American withstood the pressure from the Russian newcomer and secured the victory by judges' decision after three rounds in the heavyweight division (up to 120,2kg).
Curtis Blaydes had a strong start. The American encouraged takedown attempts from the beginning to the end of the round. He managed to be superior, despite the balance in the stand-up exchanges. The second round, however, changed the scenario. Already more tired, Curtis tried hard, but was a target for Kuniev's powerful boxing.
Blaydes already had both eyes completely closed, but he entered determined to win and 'tied up' the fight. The American was more aggressive and inhibited Rizvan's confidence. The Russian didn't attempt takedowns and just defended himself. The reading of the partials marked the victory for the veteran!
Having defeated names like Malhadinho, Cigano, and Overeem, Blaydes' current record stands at 19 wins and five losses. The American is expected to maintain his fifth-place ranking in the heavyweight division, which is led by Jon Jones.
Kuniev made his debut in the organization, but failed to surprise in his first appearance. At 33 years old, the Russian has a record of 12 wins and three losses, in addition to one 'no result' fight.
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