The co-main event of UFC on ABC 8: Hill vs. Rountree Jr. on June 21, 2025, at the Baku Crystal Hall in Baku, Azerbaijan, features an exciting lightweight clash between elite Muay Thai technician Rafael Fiziev and surging Chilean finisher Ignacio Bahamondes. With both fighters bringing high-octane striking and momentum-driven narratives, this bout has Fight of the Night potential written all over it.

Rafael Fiziev

Azerbaijan’s own Rafael Fiziev returns home looking to rebound from a string of high-profile setbacks. Currently ranked #11 in the UFC lightweight division, Fiziev holds a professional record of 12 wins and 4 losses, with 8 knockouts. He’s a former Muay Thai standout known for his speed, elite striking defense, and devastating body attacks.

Fiziev has dropped three of his last four, including a pair of decision losses to Justin Gaethje and a TKO loss due to injury against Mateusz Gamrot. Despite this recent skid, Fiziev remains one of the division’s most dangerous strikers when healthy and focused. His crisp combinations, kicks, and defensive head movement make him a nightmare in mid-range striking exchanges.

Rafael Fiziev – Last 5 Fights:

1. ❌ Loss vs. Justin Gaethje – Unanimous Decision – UFC 313, Mar 8, 2025
2. ❌ Loss vs. Mateusz Gamrot – TKO (Knee Injury) – Sep 23, 2023
3. ❌ Loss vs. Justin Gaethje – Majority Decision – UFC 286, Mar 18, 2023
4. ✅ Win vs. Rafael dos Anjos – KO (Punches) – Jul 9, 2022
5. ✅ Win vs. Brad Riddell – KO (Spinning Wheel Kick) – Dec 4, 2021

Ignacio Bahamondes

Ignacio “La Jaula” Bahamondes is one of the most promising lightweight prospects to emerge in recent years. The 6'3" Chilean striker boasts a 17-5 record with 11 knockouts and 2 submissions, and enters this fight on a three-fight winning streak, including finishes over Manuel Torres, Christos Giagos, and a shocking triangle choke submission win over Jalin Turner at UFC 313.

Known for his creativity and long-range striking, Bahamondes thrives at distance with powerful kicks, spinning attacks, and excellent shot selection. He’s shown evolution on the ground as well, and his youth and athleticism give him a strong edge in dynamic scrambles or prolonged battles.

Ignacio Bahamondes – Last 5 Fights:

1. ✅ Win vs. Jalin Turner – Submission (Triangle Choke) – UFC 313, Mar 8, 2025
2. ✅ Win vs. Manuel Torres – TKO (Punches) – UFC 306, Sep 14, 2024
3. ✅ Win vs. Christos Giagos – KO (Head Kick) – Apr 6, 2024
4. ❌ Loss vs. Ľudovít Klein – Unanimous Decision – Aug 5, 2023
5. ✅ Win vs. Trey Ogden – Unanimous Decision – UFC 287, Apr 8, 2023

Prediction

This fight is a striking purist's dream. Fiziev’s compact, high-speed Muay Thai will be tested against Bahamondes’ rangy, diverse kickboxing. Fiziev will look to close the distance, slip into range, and work powerful body kicks and counter hooks. Bahamondes, meanwhile, will aim to stay long, keep Fiziev at the end of his kicks, and frustrate him with volume and reach.

The key question is: can Fiziev handle the size and pace of Bahamondes, especially after recent injuries and losses? If Fiziev is 100%, he likely holds the technical edge and could land the cleaner shots. But if his cardio or durability falter, Bahamondes’ size, youth, and momentum may overwhelm him late.

Expect a competitive, technical battle early, but Bahamondes’ pace and pressure may start to wear down Fiziev as the rounds go on.

Prediction:
Ignacio Bahamondes def. Rafael Fiziev via TKO (Strikes) in Round 3