The previously reported matchup between Rizvan Kuniev and Tyrell Fortune will not take place in Baku, as the original source provided incorrect information. According to Vestnik MMA, the Russian fighter will compete in his next bout in July instead. The cancellation comes after earlier reports suggested the fight would occur at the Baku event. No alternative opponent or specific date in July has been announced yet.
A previously reported heavyweight matchup between Rizvan Kuniev and Tyrell Fortune has fallen apart, with the bout no longer set to take place in Baku. Vestnik MMA reports that the original source behind the pairing provided incorrect information, and the fight will not proceed as advertised. Kuniev is now expected to compete sometime in July, though no opponent or specific date has been confirmed.
Kuniev, 34, represents Russia out of Gorets Fight Club and carries a professional record of 13-3-1 in the heavyweight division, where he is currently ranked 15th. Standing six-foot-four with a 76-inch reach, the orthodox heavyweight is an active striker, landing 3.94 significant strikes per minute at 54 percent accuracy, while also mixing in nearly one takedown per 15 minutes.
Fortune, 35, brings an 18-3-0 record into his next assignment, though his divisional ranking was not confirmed. The six-foot orthodox fighter has a 75-inch reach and relies heavily on the grappling game, averaging three takedowns per 15 minutes. His striking output sits at two significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy.
Why it matters
- Kuniev's July timeline is now unresolved, leaving the ranked heavyweight without a confirmed opponent or date.
- Fortune also needs a new dance partner following the collapse of this pairing.
- Both fighters are in the prime window of their careers at 34 and 35, making scheduling delays meaningful at the heavyweight level.
