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 information from Vestnik MMA, the Russian fighter Kuniev is expected to compete next in July instead. The location and opponent for his July bout have not been specified in this update.
A previously reported heavyweight clash between Rizvan Kuniev and Tyrell Fortune in Baku has fallen through after the original source was found to have provided incorrect information. Vestnik MMA reports that Kuniev is now expected to fight in July, though no opponent or location has been confirmed.
Kuniev, a 34-year-old Russian out of Gorets Fight Club, carries a 13-3-1 record and sits at number 15 in the heavyweight division. Standing six-foot-four with a 76-inch reach, he lands a sharp 3.94 significant strikes per minute at 54 percent accuracy, making him one of the more active strikers among heavyweights on the roster.
Fortune, 35, holds an 18-3-0 record and brings a different threat to the table. At six feet tall with a 75-inch reach, he averages three takedowns per 15 minutes, giving him a strong grappling-based identity. His striking output sits at two significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy.
Why it matters
- Kuniev's July timeline means his divisional ranking at number 15 heavyweight remains in limbo until a new opponent is named.
- Fortune's next move is also now uncertain following the collapse of this pairing.
- The stylistic contrast between Kuniev's striking volume and Fortune's takedown rate would have made for a compelling matchup — whoever they each face next may deal with similar problems.
