Rizvan Kuniev (UFC 1-1) and Tyrell Fortune (UFC 1-0) are scheduled to fight on June 27 at UFC Baku, according to source Dylan K. This matchup features two fighters early in their UFC careers looking to build momentum. However, this report was later contradicted by Vestnik MMA itself, which stated the original source was incorrect and that Kuniev is expected to compete in July instead.
An unconfirmed report has emerged claiming that heavyweight contenders Rizvan Kuniev and Tyrell Fortune are targeted to meet at UFC Baku on June 27, though the story has since been disputed by the outlet that first circulated it.
The matchup was initially attributed to source Dylan K, but Vestnik MMA subsequently walked back the claim, stating the original source was incorrect and suggesting that Kuniev is more likely to compete sometime in July. Given that contradiction, the bout should be treated as unconfirmed at this stage.
Kuniev, ranked 15th in the UFC heavyweight division, carries a professional record of 13-3-1 and holds a 1-1 mark inside the octagon. The 34-year-old Russian, who trains out of Gorets Fight Club, stands six-foot-four with a 76-inch reach and fights out of an orthodox stance. He lands a notable 3.94 significant strikes per minute at a 54 percent accuracy rate, making him an efficient volume striker at heavyweight.
Fortune enters with an 18-3-0 overall record and remains unbeaten through his first UFC appearance at 1-0. The 35-year-old stands six feet tall with a reach of 75 inches and also fights orthodox. He contributes three takedowns per 15 minutes, suggesting a grappling-oriented approach, while landing two significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy.
Why it matters
- Both fighters are in the early stages of their UFC runs and a win would provide meaningful divisional momentum
- Kuniev's ranking at 15th means a strong performance could push him closer to the top ten in a competitive heavyweight picture
- The contrasting styles — Kuniev's striking output versus Fortune's takedown volume — point to an interesting tactical matchup if the fight is ultimately made official
- The conflicting reports leave the June 27 date uncertain, with a July slot potentially more likely for Kuniev
