Rafael Fiziev, one of the headline fighters for the upcoming UFC Fight Night Baku event at the National Gymnastics Arena on June 27, has arrived in the Azerbaijani capital.

According to Offsideplus.az, citing the Baku City Circuit Operations Company, the UFC star was welcomed at Heydar Aliyev International Airport by fans and close friends.

“It feels great to return to Baku, to my home Azerbaijan once again,” Fiziev said upon arrival. “An important and demanding fight awaits me. I feel excellent, my motivation is high, and I am fully prepared. Right now, all my focus is on the fight, and I can’t wait for the moment I step into the Octagon.”

The Azerbaijani fighter promised fans an exciting showdown on Saturday against Mexico’s Manuel Torres.

“When an Azerbaijani and a Mexican face each other, it always turns into an incredible fight. This time will be no different,” he said.

Commenting on discussions about his opponent’s tendency to finish fights in the first round, Fiziev stressed the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts.

“In MMA, everything can change in a single moment. One strike or one mistake can decide the outcome of the entire fight. My opponent has an aggressive style, constantly moves forward, and throws with full power. He has finished several of his recent fights in the opening round. But that does not affect my preparation or approach. Anything is possible inside the Octagon.”

Fiziev added that the road to this fight had been long and demanding.

“We have worked for years, and now it is time to show the results of all that hard work,” he noted.

The lightweight contender also called on Azerbaijani fans to attend the event and support the fighters.

“I invite all our fans to come to the arena. Your support gives us extra strength. I believe we will proudly represent Azerbaijan while feeling the energy from the stands. Let’s create an incredible atmosphere together on Saturday.”

UFC Fight Night: Fiziev vs. Torres will take place on June 27 at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku, with Azerbaijan’s Rafael Fiziev set to face Manuel Torres in the lightweight division.