Rafael “Ataman”Fiziev

Rafael Fiziev is an active UFC lightweight known by the nickname “Ataman.” Born on March 5, 1993, he began his professional mixed martial arts career in 2015 and made his UFC debut on April 20, 2019. The UFC lists him as training at Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, Thailand, with Muay Thai as his primary fighting style. He is listed at 5 feet 8 inches tall and represents a striking-focused approach built around timing, kicks, combination punching and creative attacks from range.

Fiziev established himself in the UFC through high-level striking performances and notable victories over established lightweight opponents, including Rafael dos Anjos and Brad Riddell. His career also includes bouts with Justin Gaethje and Mateusz Gamrot, contests that tested his ability to compete against elite pressure, wrestling and counterstriking. After returning from the knee injury suffered during his September 2023 fight with Gamrot, Fiziev defeated Ignacio Bahamondes in June 2025 and later scored a knockout victory over Manuel Torres in Baku on June 27, 2026.

Before becoming a full-time professional fighter, Fiziev graduated from the Kyrgyzstan Police Academy and earned a law degree. He also worked briefly as a police officer. Outside MMA, his combat-sports background includes Muay Thai competition and combat sambo, experiences that helped shape his confident and technically varied striking game. As of September 13, 2026, the UFC identifies Rafael Fiziev as an active lightweight competitor.