Rafael Fiziev is an Azerbaijani professional mixed martial artist. He competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight division.
Here, we bring Rafael Fiziev’s net worth, salary, earnings, career, MMA record, wife, and more.
About Rafael Fiziev
Rafael Fiziev was born on March 5, 1993, in Korday, Kazakhstan, to an Azerbaijani father and a Russian mother. His family moved to Kyrgyzstan when he was a child.
In his early teens, Fiziev started training in Muay Thai and later in Kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and MMA.
He currently resides in Phuket, Thailand, the birth nation of Muay Thai, and represents his fatherland, Azerbaijan, in the UFC.
He is also a police officer alongside his mixed martial arts career.
MMA Career
Rafael Fiziev made his professional MMA debut in July 2015. He competed in the Road FC and Titan FC and went 6-0 before making his UFC debut in April 2019.
As of writing, the Azerbaijani fighter is on a 12-1 MMA record. His only defeat came in his UFC debut, a TKO defeat to Magomed Mustafaev.
“Ataman” Fiziev is currently on an impressive 6-fight winning streak, beating the likes of Bobby Green, Brad Riddell, Rafael dos Anjos, etc.
At the UFC Vegas 58 main event in July 2022, Ataman knocked out Rafael dos Anjos, being named the UFC Performance of the Night.
The 30-year-old is a three-time UFC Performance of the Night and two-time Fight of the Night. He was named the 2021 Breakout Fighter of the Year by Combat Press.
Rafael Fiziev is scheduled to face Justin Gaethje at UFC 286 on March 18, 2023, in a lightweight co-main event.
Rafael Fiziev’s Net Worth
Azerbaijani fighter Rafael Fiziev’s net worth is estimated to be $1.5 million as of 2025. His primary sources of earnings are his fight purse and incentives.
“Ataman” Fiziev’s estimated base salary is close to $50,000, depending on his UFC contract, the event, and the opponent.
At UFC 265, he beat Bobby Green and pocketed $98,500 total payouts ($22,000 base pay, $22,000 win bonus, $4,500 incentive pay, and $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus).
Ataman is a three-time UFC Performance of the Night and two-time Fight of the Night, winning a $50,000 bonus for each occasion.
Moreover, Fiziev earns a massive chunk from endorsements and sponsorship deals. He has over 442k followers on his Instagram.
Personal Info
| Full Name | Rafael Fiziev |
| Nickname | Ataman |
| Date of Birth | March 5, 1993 |
| Birth Place | Korda, Kazakhstan |
| Nationality | Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Azerbaijani |
| Residence | Phuket, Thailand |
| Age | 30 |
| Height | 173 cm (5 ft 8 in) |
| Weight | 155 lb (70 kg) |
| Division | Lightweight |
| Reach | 71″ |
| Promotion | UFC |
| MMA Record | 12-1 |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million |
| Base Salary | $50,000 (approx.) |
| Relationship Status | Unknown |
| @rafael_ataman_fiziev |
Nickname
Fiziev’s nickname is Ataman.
MMA Record
| Total Fights | 13 |
| Wins | 12 |
| Draw | 0 |
| Lost | 1 |
| Win by KO/TKO | 8 |
FAQs
Who is Rafael Fiziev, and where is he from?
Rafael Fiziev is a professional MMA fighter competing in the UFC’s lightweight division. He was born on March 5, 1993, in Korday, Kazakhstan, to an Azerbaijani father and a Russian mother. Fiziev grew up in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and now represents Azerbaijan in his fights.
What’s Rafael Fiziev’s fighting record?
Fiziev’s professional MMA record stands at 12 wins and 3 losses. In the UFC, he has 7 wins and 3 losses. He’s known for his finishing ability, with 8 wins by knockout and 1 by submission.
What’s Fiziev’s fighting style?
Fiziev is primarily a striker with a strong Muay Thai background. He started training in Muay Thai at age 11 and has won multiple national and international tournaments. In MMA, he’s known for his precise striking, powerful kicks, and impressive defensive skills. He’s also developed solid grappling abilities to round out his game.
Why is Rafael Fiziev called “Ataman”?
Fiziev’s nickname, “Ataman,” comes from his childhood. His father used it to encourage him after he stood up to bullies, explaining that it means “commander” or someone who’s respected and in charge. The nickname stuck with him throughout his fighting career.
Where does Rafael Fiziev train?
Fiziev trains at Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, Thailand. He’s been associated with this gym for several years and teaches kickboxing classes as a trainer there.
What are some of Fiziev’s most notable fights?
Some of Fiziev’s standout performances include his knockout victories over Rafael dos Anjos, Brad Riddell, and Renato Moicano. His fights against Justin Gaethje and Bobby Green, although not all wins, were also highly competitive and earned him Fight of the Night bonuses.
Has Fiziev ever fought for a UFC title?
No, Fiziev hasn’t fought for a UFC title yet. However, he’s currently ranked in the top 10 of the lightweight division and is considered a potential future title contender.
What was Fiziev’s career before MMA?
Before becoming a full-time MMA fighter, Fiziev studied at the Kyrgyzstan Police Academy and briefly worked as a police officer. He also had a successful career in Muay Thai, competing in numerous tournaments.
How many performance bonuses has Fiziev won in the UFC?
Fiziev has won several performance bonuses in the UFC. He’s earned three Performance of the Night bonuses and three Fight of the Night bonuses, showcasing his exciting fighting style.
What’s an interesting fact about Rafael Fiziev?
Fiziev used to fear spiders but decided to face his fear by collecting tarantulas. At one point, he reportedly had over 200 tarantulas as pets! This unique hobby shows his determination to overcome challenges in and out of the octagon.
