Lightweight Rafael Fiziev returns home this week to headline UFC Baku, with the Azerbaijani taking on Manuel Torres atop the Fight Night card.
Fiziev’s last win, in fact, came at the inaugural Baku, Azerbaijan event a year ago; that victory against Ignacio Bahamondes was followed by a loss to Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 325 earlier this year.
In Torres, Fiziev (13-5) noted during this week’s UFC Baku media day that “I see strengths and I understand what his weaknesses are, and I will use my strengths against his weaknesses.” Torres is 5-1 in the UFC, and is stepping into a main event for the first time this weekend.
Asked about Azerbaijani fans, meanwhile, “I’m sure you’ll be proud,” Fiziev said of the fight.
Fighting at home has Rafael Fiziev feeling relaxed, it seems.
“I came here two times already two times already [to] fight and honestly say, I feel super calm inside. Because usually I come here to rest, see relatives, have something tasty to eat, walk, enjoy our beauty, and they come here to fight. And already, two times, I feel huge piece of mind. No pressure, just zero pressure, soul is very calm.”
That said, Fiziev added the he was sure that after weighing in, “I’m going to start catching a charge,” and going out to fight “will charge me like it did last time,” but for the past week, he’s been “very calm in general.”
Watch the full UFC Baku media day appearance by Rafael Fiziev above.
