According to CBS Sports’ compiled 2026 schedule, the UFC will travel to Baku, Azerbaijan, on June 27 for a UFC Fight Night headlined by Rafael Fiziev vs. Manuel Torres at lightweight. This marks a notable expansion into a new market in the Caucasus region, with Fiziev’s fan‑friendly striking style likely to appeal to local and international audiences. Torres gets a major opportunity to break into contention by facing a ranked, high‑profile opponent. The result of this matchup could shuffle the lightweight rankings and determine who moves closer to the division’s top five. The event will stream on Paramount+, with further card details to follow.
The UFC will head to Baku, Azerbaijan, on June 27 for a Fight Night event headlined by a lightweight clash between Rafael Fiziev and Manuel Torres, with the card streaming on Paramount+.
Fiziev, nicknamed "Ataman," enters the bout ranked seventh in the lightweight division. The 33-year-old Kazakhstani trains out of Tiger Muay Thai and carries a 14-5 record, competing out of a switch stance with a 71-inch reach. He lands 4.71 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy, and his aggressive, crowd-pleasing style makes him a natural fit to headline the promotion's debut in the Caucasus region.
Torres, known as "El Loco," brings a 17-4 record and a reputation as one of the most prolific strikers on the roster. The 31-year-old Mexican, who trains at Entram Gym, lands an eye-catching 7.29 significant strikes per minute at 59 percent accuracy — numbers that rank among the best in the division. He also adds a takedown threat at 1.72 per 15 minutes, giving him a well-rounded offensive profile. A win over a ranked opponent like Fiziev would represent the biggest statement of his UFC career.
Why it matters
- Fiziev is ranked seventh at lightweight, so the winner has a clear path toward the division's top five
- Torres's elite striking output against a seasoned, high-profile opponent is a legitimate measuring-stick moment
- The Baku card represents the UFC's first event in Azerbaijan, opening a new market in the Caucasus
- Both fighters operate out of a switch stance, setting up a technically complex, high-volume striking contest
Saturday, May 16, 2026
