Shamil Gaziev claims he weighed 140 kilograms before starting his training camp. According to a recent photo, the heavyweight has now reduced his weight to 119.85 kilograms ahead of UFC Perth. This represents a weight cut of over 20 kilograms during his preparation period. The post notes the impressive weight reduction ahead of his heavyweight bout in Australia. UFC Perth is scheduled to take place soon, though the exact fight date is not mentioned in this brief update.
Shamil Gaziev has revealed a dramatic physical transformation ahead of UFC Perth, disclosing that he entered his training camp weighing 140 kilograms before cutting down to 119.85 kilograms — a reduction of more than 20 kilograms during his preparation.
Gaziev, 36, represents Bahrain out of KHK MMA and holds a professional record of 14 wins and 3 losses competing in the heavyweight division, where he is currently ranked 11th in the UFC. The six-foot-four fighter carries a 78-inch reach and brings a well-rounded offensive game to the cage. He lands 2.62 significant strikes per minute at a 47 percent accuracy rate, while also mixing in takedown attempts at a rate of 0.93 per 15 minutes. His submission threat is modest, averaging 0.3 attempts per 15 minutes, suggesting he is primarily a striker who can complement his standup with wrestling when needed.
Why it matters
- A 20-plus kilogram camp cut is a notable physical feat for a heavyweight, where competitors typically do not undergo severe weight management
- Arriving leaner could suggest Gaziev is prioritizing conditioning and cardio for his Australian bout
- At ranked 11th in the division, a strong performance at UFC Perth could push him further up the heavyweight ladder
- His orthodox stance and above-average reach of 198 cm make him a potentially tricky stylistic matchup for most heavyweights
The update, shared via a recent photo, underscores the work Gaziev and the KHK MMA team have put in during this training block. UFC Perth is approaching, and Gaziev appears to be arriving in peak physical condition by the standards of the division.
