Rafael Fiziev, who will face Manuel Torres at the UFC Fight Night in Baku on June 27, met with the media to answer questions from journalists.

Offsideplus.az presents the interview:

Who are you preparing for the fight with? 

I am very impatient to return to Azerbaijan for the second time. I am returning to the place where I grew up, to my country. My camp will remain the same. I am currently in Thailand. I have the same coach and the same team. I’m sticking with my crew. I will try to show you the best fight day possible.

In which round do you want to knock out your opponent in Baku? 

Every fighter can talk about a knockout, but no one can say for sure which round it will happen in. Although a knockout isn't my sole objective, if the opportunity arises, I will take it.

Farman Hasanov will make his UFC debut. Which other Azerbaijani fighters would you like to see in the UFC? 

I could list names like Ali Guliyev, Elbek Alishov, Asaf Chopurov, and others. Even if I can't name them all, the athletes I mentioned are at a high level.

Have you analyzed Manuel Torres? What are his strengths and weaknesses? 

Unexpected results can happen in UFC fights. My opponent fights standing up; he doesn't wrestle. This gives him an advantage. The difficulty with this opponent is his height. He has long arms.

Looking at your last three fights: a loss, a victory at home, and a loss. Since you are fighting at home again, will it be another victory? 

When the octagon doors close, that feeling is the same everywhere. Whether it's in China, America, or the motherland—once the doors close, a beautiful dance begins, and it’s the same everywhere.

Is there an opponent Rafael Fiziyev dreams of fighting one day? 

I’ve never had such a dream. Every fighter always dreams of reaching the top. So far, this path is leading me to the summit.

What are your thoughts on the Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland fight and the pre-fight "trash talk"? 

I watched the fight. "Trash talk" is usually real. Conflicts between fighters can cross boundaries. This isn't a show staged by the UFC. As for the fight, the judges made their decision, and Sean won. There is no right or wrong decision here. When one side wins, the other is always dissatisfied.

You are someone who loves food. Are you on a diet already? How is the process going? 

I really do love food. Food is an area of interest for me. However, I’ve currently gained 20 kg. I’ve already shed half of it, but there’s still a process ahead. I’m dieting and using diet products, which I don’t particularly enjoy.

There is a guitar in the background. Are you involved with music? 

I bought it to have fun with my children. Although I can't play the guitar, it's for spending time with them. I don't listen to music much. Even the "AC/DC" shirt I’m wearing—I just bought it because I liked it. I only recently found out they are a good band.

What quality do you think makes the fans in Baku love you the most? 

I receive support not only from our compatriots living in Azerbaijan but from Azerbaijanis living all over the world. I get many messages and invitations.

To further win the hearts of your compatriots, what would you like to say in our own language? 

I understood your question. I understand questions asked in your language, at least a little. When I arrive in the country, I will try to learn our language better. Perhaps next time, I will answer your questions in our own tongue.