Main Event: Hill and Rountree Weigh-In at 206 lbs
UFC Baku is set to make history as Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree headline the first-ever UFC event in Azerbaijan. Both light heavyweight contenders successfully weighed in at 206 pounds, signaling their readiness for a high-stakes battle that could redefine their careers and title aspirations.
With both men coming off losses, this fight is a crucial turning point in the stacked UFC light heavyweight division. A win could catapult the victor back into serious title contention.
Historical Significance of UFC Baku
This event is more than just a fight night—UFC Baku marks the promotion’s debut in Azerbaijan. Baku has steadily become a prominent destination for global sports, and now it joins the UFC’s expanding international footprint.
For local fans, the event represents a monumental opportunity to witness top-tier MMA action live. For fighters, it’s a chance to etch their names into the record books as participants in a landmark event.
Jamahal Hill: Former Champion Seeking Redemption
Hill enters this bout ranked No. 7 in the light heavyweight rankings, following back-to-back knockout losses to Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira. Once a reigning champion, Hill now faces the challenge of climbing back up the rankings.
“I came here to win, and I am ready to get back to where I belong,” Hill declared during weigh-ins.
A victory on Saturday would be a major step forward in reclaiming his status as a top contender.
Khalil Rountree: Looking to Reignite Title Run
Ranked No. 8, Rountree is also looking for redemption after his impressive five-fight win streak was snapped by Alex Pereira. Known for his explosive striking and evolving MMA game, Rountree is determined to seize this opportunity.
“Every fight is a chance for redemption, and I intend to seize this opportunity,” Rountree said.
A win over Hill would solidify his position in the top 10 and put him on a short list of potential title challengers.
Co-Main Event: Rafael Fiziev vs. Ignacio Bahamondes
In the lightweight co-main event, Rafael Fiziev and Ignacio Bahamondes both successfully made weight at 155.5 pounds. Fiziev, ranked No. 11, is under pressure to break a three-fight skid and reassert himself in the division.
For Bahamondes, this bout is a massive opportunity to break into the top 15. A win over a seasoned striker like Fiziev could signal his arrival among the elite.
Full Fight Card and Weigh-In Results
All 24 fighters made weight, ensuring that the entire UFC Baku card is official. Notable bouts include:
- Heavyweight: Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev
- Catchweight (165 lbs): Tofiq Musayev vs. Myktybek Orolbai
The event kicks off at 12 p.m. ET with prelims on ESPN and ESPN+, followed by the main card on ABC and ESPN+ at 3 p.m. ET.
Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree (Both weighed 206 lbs) |
| Co-Main Event | Rafael Fiziev vs. Ignacio Bahamondes (Both at 155.5 lbs) |
| Broadcast | ABC & ESPN+ (Main card), ESPN/ESPN+ (Prelims) |
| Fight Card Status | All 24 fighters successfully made weight |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who is headlining UFC Baku?
- Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree in a pivotal light heavyweight bout.
- What are their rankings?
- Hill is ranked No. 7; Rountree is No. 8 in the UFC light heavyweight division.
- What makes UFC Baku significant?
- This is the first UFC event in Azerbaijan, highlighting the country’s emergence on the MMA world stage.
- What’s at stake for Fiziev and Bahamondes?
- Fiziev aims to break a three-fight losing streak, while Bahamondes seeks to enter the lightweight rankings.
- Did all fighters make weight?
- Yes, all 24 fighters successfully made weight ahead of UFC Baku.
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