Hot weather! Fiziev downplays Mauricio Ruffy's training with Volkanovski and provokes him during a face-off: 'Aren't you going to smile?'

Fiziev promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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If peace reigns between Alexander Volkanovsky e Diego lopes at UFC 325, the same does not apply to Raphael Fiziev and Mauricio Ruffy. At the pre-UFC 325 press conference, held this Thursday (29), in Australia, the Kazakh surprised and provoked the member of the 'Fighting Nerds' academy. In this way, 'Ataman' made the important fight, valid for the lightweight (up to 70,3 kg), even more interesting.

Interestingly, Fiziev isn't known for using trash talk in his fights. However, at UFC 325, the athlete showed that he also knows how to taunt his opponents.

Aware that the Brazilian had trained with the featherweight champion (up to 65,8 kg), 'Ataman' didn't seem worried about the partnership. On the contrary, the veteran, who also has striking as a strong point, exuded confidence and promised to defeat Ruffy decisively.

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“Everyone tells me that my opponent trained with Volkanovski, but I also trained with him many times at Tiger Muay Thai, a long time ago. I trained with Batman, Spider-Man, with everyone from Marvel. So, I'm ready for anything,” said the top-10 lightweight.

“Did you see him? He trained really well. Perfect and beautiful spinning kicks. I was shocked when I saw him training. But let's go in there and, when I'm in the octagon, I'll be like Volkanovski in the kitchen, I'll be cooking,” he concluded.

Provocation also in the face-off

When he came face to face with Ruffy, Fiziev laughed in the face of danger. Much more experienced in the UFC, the athlete, realizing the Brazilian's seriousness about the commitment, tried to break him, saying: "Come on, smile, brother!". Coldly, the 'Nerd' said nothing to the Kazakh, much less smiled.

Watch the face-off between Fiziev and Ruffy at UFC 325.

Lightweights bring the action! 🍿@RafaelFiziev vs @RuffyMMA

[ #UFC325 | JAN 31 | 9pmET on @ParamountMore ] pic.twitter.com/5tQ3JMCXRE

- UFC (@ufc) January 29, 2026