Chiesa Backs Rafael Fiziev to Beat Manuel Torres at UFC Fight Night 280
Updated
Updated · MMA Junkie · Jun 26
Chiesa Backs Rafael Fiziev to Beat Manuel Torres at UFC Fight Night 280
3 articles · Updated · MMA Junkie · Jun 26
Summary
Michael Chiesa picked Rafael Fiziev to beat Manuel Torres in Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 280 lightweight main event in Baku, saying Fiziev’s range control, stance switches and possible takedowns give him the edge.
Torres enters at 17-3 and 5-1 in the UFC, but all six of his octagon fights have ended before Round 2, leaving Chiesa doubtful he can solve a more seasoned opponent over a longer, more technical fight.
Fiziev, 13-5 overall and 7-5 in the UFC, has faced elite 155-pound competition including two Fight of the Night bouts with champion Justin Gaethje, experience Chiesa sees as a key separator.
Chiesa still expects an explosive finish to the card, calling the matchup “a banger at 155” and saying one or both fighters could leave Baku with bonus money.