Rafael Fiziev (born March 5, 1993) is an Azerbaijani[7] professional mixed martial artist and Muay Thai fighter.
Initially, he did not enjoy sparring, and it was not until he changed schools as a teenager that Fiziev took up Muay Thai at the age of 11 due to being bullied.
[10] When switching from Muay Thai to MMA, he says learning the grappling was the toughest part but his striking and standup required adjusting as well.
[11] Fiziev entered the 2017 Toyota Marathon 154 lb tournament as well, defeating Detrit Sathian Gym by decision in the semifinal.
He lost again by decision but went viral on social media in the process due to the impressive lean back defensive technique he displayed.
[12] On April 21, 2017, Fiziev faced former Lumpinee Stadium champion Yodpayak Sitsongpeenong at a Muay Xtreme event in Bangkok, Thailand.
[15] In his promotional debut, Fiziev faced Magomed Mustafaev on April 20, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 149.
[19] Fiziev faced Marc Diakiese, replacing Alan Patrick on July 19, 2020, at UFC Fight Night 172.
[33] Fiziev was scheduled to face Rafael dos Anjos on February 19, 2022, at UFC Fight Night 201.
[35] One week before the event, Fiziev was again forced to withdraw due to testing positive for COVID-19[36] and was replaced by Renato Moicano.
[45] Fiziev was reportedly going to face Mateusz Gamrot in a rematch on February 1, 2025 at UFC Fight Night 250.