Saparbek Safarov


Saparbek Dibirovich Safarov is a Russian mixed martial artist of Avar origin who competes in the light heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Mixed martial arts career

Safarov started his career with 8 straight victories that included 6 knockouts and 2 submissions. He was then called in for a short replacement fight against Gian Villante. Gian's original opponent, Patrick Cummins, pulled out of the fight with a staph infection. Safarov suffered the first loss of his career by knockout in a back and forth fight. Both participants were awarded Fight of the Night for their performance.
Safarov was next expected to fight Marcos Rogério de Lima at UFC Fight Night 115. However, Lima tested positive for banned anabolic steroids and the bout was cancelled.
Safarov faced Tyson Pedro on February 11, 2018 at UFC 221. He lost the fight via kimura submission in the first round.
Safarov was expected to face Alonzo Menifield on November 10, 2018 at UFC Fight Night 139. However, it was reported on October 21, 2018 that Safarov pulled out from the event due to undisclosed reason and the bout was scrapped.
Safarov was scheduled to face Gökhan Saki on March 16, 2019 at UFC on ESPN+ 5. However, Saki pulled out of the fight in late February due to an undisclosed injury. Saki was replaced by Nicolae Negumereanu. Safarov won the fight by unanimous decision.
Safarov was expected to face promotional newcomer Da Un Jung on August 31, 2019 at UFC on ESPN+ 15. However, on August 5, 2019, Safarov was pulled from the bout for undisclosed reason.
Safarov faced Rodolfo Vieira in a middleweight bout on March 7, 2020 at UFC 248. He lost the fight via an arm-triangle submission in the first round.
Safarov is scheduled to face Julian Marquez on August 29, 2020 at UFC Fight Night 176.

Championships and accomplishments

[Mixed martial arts]