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UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, today officially announced the highly anticipated headlining bouts for its return to Azerbaijan. UFC FIGHT NIGHT BAKU, taking place on Saturday, June 27, at the National Gymnastics Arena, will feature a clash of elite contenders as Azerbaijan’s own Rafael Fiziev takes on Manuel Torres in a five-round lightweight main event thriller.
In the co-main event, fans will witness a high-stakes middleweight battle between the sensation Sharaputdin “Shara Bullet” Magomedov and the explosive Michel Pereira.
Following the success of UFC’s debut in Azerbaijan, this event marks a significant return to the region, further cementing Baku’s status as a premier destination for world-class sporting events and high-level international competition.
Rafael “Ataman” Fiziev (Record: 13-5, fighting out of Baku, Azerbaijan), currently ranked #11 in the lightweight division, looks to defend his home turf and re-enter the title conversation with his signature world-class striking. Standing across the Octagon is Manuel “Loco” Torres (Record: 17-3, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico), a fan favorite known for his terrifying knockout power and a 100% finish rate in his UFC victories.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT BAKU will be broadcast live on global platforms, reaching millions of fans worldwide. Local fans in Azerbaijan can witness the action live as the Octagon returns to the heart of the Caucasus.
Ticket sales will open shortly. To stay up to date with all event news and secure early access to tickets, fans are strongly encouraged to register their interest at UFC.com/Baku.
About UFC®
UFC® is the world's premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and approximately 353 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while distributing programming to more than 950 million broadcast and digital households across more than 210 countries and territories. UFC's athlete roster features the world's best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization's digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world's leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.
About BCC
Baku City Circuit Operation Company (BCC) is the leading organizer of major international sporting events in Azerbaijan and the official promoter of the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the world’s biggest motorsport championship, attracting top drivers and millions of fans globally. Since 2025, BCC has been the official organizer of UFC events in Azerbaijan.
Operating to the highest international standards, BCC oversees the planning and delivery of large-scale sporting and entertainment events, ensuring seamless operations. BCC continues to position Azerbaijan as one of the premier destinations for international competitions.
For more information, visit azerbaijangp.com and follow BCC on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok @BCC.