UFC Baku: Curtis Blaydes Edges Rizvan Kuniev in Heavyweight Thriller

By Ali Hammad June 24, 2025 09:57

Curtis Blaydes edged out Rizvan Kuniev in a tightly contested heavyweight battle at UFC Baku on June 21, 2025, securing a split decision victory in the event’s main event at Baku Crystal Hall. The judges scored the fight 29-28, 29-28, and 28-29, reflecting the razor-thin margin between the seasoned American contender and the UFC newcomer from Russia.

Blaydes, ranked fifth in the heavyweight division, came into the fight looking to rebound from a first-round knockout loss to interim champ Tom Aspinall last July. Despite a dominant first round where he utilized his wrestling to control Kuniev against the cage and on the mat, Blaydes revealed post-fight that he suffered a “pop” in his left MCL early in the bout, which may have affected his output in the later rounds.

The opening round saw Blaydes quickly shoot for a double-leg takedown, establishing top control and limiting Kuniev’s offense. Kuniev struggled to mount significant offense early, but by the second round, the Russian began finding his rhythm. He defended Blaydes’ takedown attempts with increasing success and started landing crisp combinations, visibly swelling Blaydes’ face. Kuniev’s striking and footwork improved as the fight progressed, making the second round more competitive and forcing Blaydes to rely more on his stand-up game.

In the final round, Blaydes returned to his grappling roots, once again stifling Kuniev’s offense with clinch control and takedown attempts. Kuniev launched a late flurry of strikes in the closing seconds, but it was not enough to sway the judges. The fight’s pace was methodical rather than explosive, with both fighters cautious but determined.

Blaydes acknowledged the difficulty of the fight and the injury he sustained. “I felt a pop in my left MCL in the first round,” he said during the post-fight interview. “It definitely made things harder, but I’m a fighter. I wanted to get back in the win column.” Looking ahead, Blaydes expressed interest in facing Ciryl Gane next, a matchup fans have anticipated for some time. “If I get cleared medically, I want to fight the best. Ciryl Gane is someone I’ve wanted to face for a while,” Blaydes added.

For Kuniev, 33, the fight marked a long-awaited UFC debut after multiple postponements. Despite the loss, his performance impressed many, showcasing his toughness and potential to be a future contender. He demonstrated solid takedown defense and improved striking under pressure, signaling a promising start to his UFC career.

The fight, while lacking in highlight-reel finishes, was a tactical heavyweight clash that underscored Blaydes’ resilience and Kuniev’s readiness for the big stage. With this win, Blaydes improves to 18-5 overall and 14-5 in the UFC, reaffirming his place among the division’s elite despite recent setbacks.

UFC Baku’s main event highlighted the depth and competitiveness of the heavyweight division, with Blaydes’ narrow victory serving as a testament to his grit and determination. As the division continues to evolve, matchups like Blaydes vs. Gane loom large, promising high-stakes battles for the heavyweight crown in the near future.