Overview
- Rafael Fiziev knocked out Manuel Torres with a spinning wheel kick and follow‑up punches in the second round to end a prolonged slump and record his first knockout since 2022.
- Immediately after the win Fiziev publicly called for a shot at Charles Oliveira’s BMF belt, saying the two had unfinished business after a cancelled October 2025 booking that Fiziev withdrew from with a knee injury.
- Fiziev told reporters he does not expect an immediate lightweight title shot against Justin Gaethje and credited Gaethje’s recent performance for giving him extra motivation to return to form.
- Oliveira currently holds the BMF title and has been publicly pushing for a title‑versus‑title rematch with Gaethje, so the UFC has not yet confirmed whether Oliveira will face Fiziev next.
- Fiziev’s highlight knockout restores his standing in the lightweight picture and could fast‑track a BMF opportunity depending on matchmaking choices, other contenders’ claims and Oliveira’s decision about a Gaethje rematch.