Rizvan Kuniev to Debut on UFC Main Card Against #5 Ranked Curtis Blaydes

This June 2025, Russian heavyweight Rizvan Kuniev will make his UFC main card debut, facing one of the division’s most dangerous opponents — Curtis Blaydes, currently ranked #5 in the UFC heavyweight rankings.
The fight will take place at the high-profile UFC on ABC 8 event, scheduled for June 21 at Baku Crystal Hall in Azerbaijan.

 A Journey From FEA to the World Stage
Kuniev’s journey in professional MMA began long before he entered the global spotlight. One of the pivotal stages of his career was his time in FEA Championship (also known as EAGLES FC), one of Europe’s leading MMA promotions.

On February 15, 2020, in the Republic of Moldova, Kuniev claimed a dominant win against Dutch fighter Ruud Vernooij, showing off his technique, power, and composure. That bout became a milestone on his way to the top tier of global MMA.

Since then, Kuniev has secured four more victories, including two impressive performances in Dana White’s Contender Series — in 2021 and 2024. These fights caught the attention of UFC officials and earned him a full contract and a debut spot on the main card.

Straight Into the Fire: Curtis Blaydes
The UFC did not ease Kuniev into competition. His very first opponent will be Curtis Blaydes, one of the most experienced and dangerous heavyweights in the sport.
Blaydes is known for his elite wrestling and victories over top contenders such as:

Tom Aspinall

Alexander Volkov

Sergei Pavlovich

This fight is not just a debut — it’s a high-stakes challenge and a chance for Kuniev to immediately make a name for himself in the division. A win could establish him as a legitimate title contender. It promises to be a debut that could shake up the entire UFC heavyweight landscape.

 FEA Championship: A Proving Ground
More and more fighters from FEA Championship are entering the rosters of the world’s top promotions. FEA has earned global recognition as a launchpad for world-class talent.

Rizvan Kuniev’s journey is proof that FEA is a springboard not only for Eastern European athletes but for hardworking fighters from around the world.
His upcoming UFC debut in Baku will symbolize how FEA Championship opens doors for ambitious fighters and gives them the opportunity to showcase their full potential.