MMA
UFC Fight Night: Rafael Fiziev vs Ignacio Bahamondes Preview: Odds, Tips, and Prediction
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM Venue: Baku Crystal Hall, Baku, Azerbaijan SportsBoom previews the thrilling lightweight co-main event between Rafael Fiziev and Ignacio Bahamondes at UFC Fight Night, set for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Baku Crystal Hall in Baku, Azerbaijan. This high-stakes clash pits the hometown hero against an up-and-coming contender, with both fighters aiming to make a statement. For fans eager to dive into MMA betting, explore online MMA betting for top MMA betting sites and expert insights.
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Rafael Fiziev of Kazakstan enters the Octagon//Getty Images
UFC Fight Night in Baku marks the promotion’s debut in Azerbaijan, with Rafael Fiziev facing Ignacio Bahamondes in the co-main event on June 21, 2025, at Baku Crystal Hall. Fiziev, ranked No. 11 in the lightweight division, is on a three-fight skid, most recently dropping a decision to Justin Gaethje at UFC 313 in March 2025.
Bahamondes, on the other hand, is riding a three-fight win streak with first-round finishes and he even submitted Jalin Turner in his last outing. A win for Fiziev could halt his slide, while Bahamondes aims to crack the top 10. This is their first meeting and fireworks is expected.
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
To place your bets and compare odds, check out online betting sites for the best platforms offering UFC betting offers.
- Rafael Fiziev: 10/11 (1.91) – 52.4%
- Ignacio Bahamondes: 10/11 (1.91) – 52.4%
- Draw: 16/1 (17.00) – 5.9%
*Odds courtesy of Betway, subject to change.
The near-even pre-match betting odds reflect the competitive nature of this matchup, with UFC bookmakers split on the outcome.
Tale of the Tape
| Attribute | Rafael Fiziev | Ignacio Bahamondes |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 32 | 27 |
| Height | 5’8” (173 cm) | 6’3” (191 cm) |
| Weight | 155 lbs (70 kg) | 155 lbs (70 kg) |
| Reach | 71.5” (182 cm) | 75” (191 cm) |
| Record | 12-4-0 | 17-5-0 |
| KO/TKO | 66.7% (8/12) | 64.7% (11/17) |
| Submission | 8.3% (1/12) | 11.8% (2/17) |
| Decisions | 25% (3/12) | 23.5% (4/17) |
Bahamondes’ significant height and reach advantages could dictate range, but Fiziev’s explosive Muay Thai and knockout power make him dangerous.
Rafael Fiziev News
Rafael “Ataman” Fiziev returns to his adopted home of Azerbaijan, where he grew up, looking to snap a three-fight losing streak. His latest setback came via unanimous decision against Justin Gaethje at UFC 313 in March 2025, following a knee injury TKO against Mateusz Gamrot in 2023 and another Gaethje loss.
Fiziev is expected to be fully fit. His striking precision and power remain key, but he must manage Bahamondes’ reach to regain momentum.
Ignacio Bahamondes News
Ignacio “La Jaula” Bahamondes is on a proper run of form, boasting three consecutive first-round finishes, including a submission over Jalin Turner at UFC 313 in March 2025, which earned him Performance of the Night bonuses each time. The 27-year-old Chilean kickboxer is healthy and confident ahead of the fight. His height, reach, and high-volume striking (7.09 significant strikes per minute) make him a threat, but facing an elite striker like Fiziev is his toughest test yet. Bahamondes aims to leverage his momentum to break into the lightweight elite.
Suggested Bets
For those looking to bet on UFC, here are three suggested bets from top UFC matches betting sites, offering solid options based on fighter stats and recent performances.
Fight to End by KO/TKO: Both fighters have high KO/TKO rates (Fiziev 66.7%, Bahamondes 64.7%), and their striking styles suggest a finish is likely. (Forecast odds: 6/5)
Over 1.5 Rounds: Given Fiziev’s durability and Bahamondes’ tendency to engage in striking exchanges, this fight is likely to extend past the early minutes. (Forecast odds: 4/5)
Fiziev to Win by Decision: Fiziev’s experience and ability to manage range could lead to a technical striking battle, favouring a decision win in front of his home crowd. (Forecast odds: 2/1)
Value Bets
For bettors seeking higher returns, these value bets from sites for betting on UFC matches offer attractive odds for this Rafael Fiziev vs Ignacio Bahamondes betting odds scenario.
Bahamondes to Win by KO/TKO: Bahamondes’ 11 KO/TKO wins and reach advantage could lead to a stoppage if he catches Fiziev with his high-volume strikes. (Forecast odds: 3/1)
Fight to End in Round 2: Both fighters’ aggressive styles and finishing tendencies suggest a potential stoppage in the second round, especially if early exchanges take a toll. (Forecast odds: 5/1)
Bahamondes to Win by Decision: If Bahamondes uses his reach to outpoint Fiziev over three rounds, a decision victory is likely and offers great value. (Forecast odds: 4/1)
Prediction: Fiziev by KO/TKO
Rafael Fiziev is poised to capitalize on his home advantage and elite striking to end his recent blip. Fiziev’s Muay Thai precision and 66.7% KO/TKO rate give him the edge in a stand-up battle, despite Bahamondes’ reach and momentum. Bahamondes’ high-volume striking is dangerous, but Fiziev’s speed and power should find openings for a second-round knockout. For those looking to back Fiziev’s comeback, checking out the best signup bonus sports betting options can add extra value to your wager.
With a decade of sports writing expertise, Nigel Naicker has crafted compelling content across football leagues like the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, as well as cricket and UFC. A passionate storyteller since 2014, Nigel joins the SportsBoom team, ready to deliver insightful narratives across various sports disciplines.
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