UFC books 2 hulking Brazilians against Russian foes at UFC Baku in June

"Brazilian outlet Ag. Fight broke the news on Thursday about the first two matches set for UFC Baku, which will be held at the Baku Crystal Hall in Azerbaijan's capital city on June 27. Both fights will be held at 185 pounds, featuring one Brazilian against a Russian adversary. The first will see Michel Pereira (32-14, 2 NC) take on Sharabutdin Magomedov (16-1) in a collision that may have rankings implications at 185 pounds."

""Demolidor" put a three-fight skid behind him by claiming a split decision in a bloody thriller with Zachary Reese at UFC Houston in February. Before getting his hand raised, the high-flying Brazilian had succumbed to strikes from Anthony Hernandez and Kyle Daukaus that bookend a decision defeat to Abusupiyan Magomedov. The former welterweight relocated to 185 pounds in the midst of a huge win streak, one that saw him pick up eight straight victories across two divisions."

"Russia's Magomedov put his first career defeat behind him by claiming a hard-nosed decision victory against Marc-Andre Barriault in July 2025. Not counting his five triumphs in the modified-rules league of Nashe Delo, "Shara Bullet" started his career with 16 straight wins, with 12 of those coming by knockout. After thumping ex-bantamweight Kushal Vyas in Thailand in eight seconds, Magomedov punched his ticket to the Octagon and rattled off four straight victories before running into Michael Page."

UFC Baku will take place on June 27 at Baku Crystal Hall in Azerbaijan, featuring two middleweight matchups with a Brazil versus Russia theme. Michel Pereira faces Sharabutdin Magomedov in a fight with potential ranking implications. Pereira recently ended a three-fight losing streak with a split decision victory over Zachary Reese at UFC Houston in February. Magomedov, undefeated before his loss to Michael Page, bounced back with a decision win against Marc-Andre Barriault in July 2025. The second bout involves Brunno Ferreira, a Brazilian fighter with a recent loss to Gregory Rodrigues in March.

Read at Sherdog