Mauricio Ruffy delivered one of the most striking performances of UFC 325, stopping Rafael Fiziev via TKO in a wild, high-level striking battle. More than just a win, this fight marked a defining moment in the Brazilian’s lightweight career.
Ranked No.14 heading into the bout, Ruffy stepped into the Octagon under heavy scrutiny. His previous loss to Benoît Saint Denis at UFC Paris had raised questions about his ceiling. Against a proven elite striker like Fiziev, this was a must-answer moment.
Round 1: Fiziev in control
Fiziev started strong, applying relentless pressure and controlling the range. His calf kicks quickly began to damage Ruffy’s lead leg, forcing the Brazilian backward and limiting his movement. Early on, the Azerbaijani appeared firmly in command.
Round 2: the turning point
But sustained pressure comes at a cost. Ruffy adjusted, found his rhythm with sharp boxing, and began landing clean shots. The exchanges intensified. Then came the shift: a sudden burst, a clean connection, and Fiziev staggered.
Sensing blood, Ruffy pressed forward. Fiziev fell, and the Brazilian followed him to the ground, unleashing decisive ground-and-pound. The referee stepped in. TKO.
🔥 Il est de retour !@Ruffymma s'impose par TKO au deuxième round
📺 Regardez l’#UFC325 EN DIRECT sur 🇫🇷 RMC Sport et sur 🇧🇪 VOOSport World pic.twitter.com/MuV8i6HhPI
— UFC France (@UFCFRA) February 1, 2026
More than a comeback
Now 13-2, Ruffy’s victory goes far beyond numbers. Stopping a fighter like Fiziev is a clear declaration of intent. It shows resilience, growth, and readiness for the highest level of competition.
A spot in the lightweight Top 10 now appears inevitable. At UFC 325, Mauricio Ruffy didn’t just bounce back — he reshaped his standing in one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions.
