Shamil Gaziev turned in the best outing of his UFC career thus far earlier today (Sat., Feb. 1, 2025) at UFC Saudi Arabia live on ESPN+ from inside anb Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, sparking fellow heavyweight Thomas Petersen with a one-punch walkoff knockout midway through the first round.
The verdict was still out on Gaziev entering this weekend after producing a 2-1 record in three Octagon appearances, but the imposing Russian prospect ultimately proved his worth. It was one of the only times UFC fans have seen Gaziev compete coming off a full camp and with no injuries. Maybe that’s why he was a sizeable betting favorite to get past Petersen.
Petersen has proven to be a tough out at heavyweight, but his skills have looked a bit limited. “The Train” did land some good punches early on in this fight and tried to mix in his wrestling only to have Gaziev close the show with one single right hand. It crashed into Petersen’s chin and instantly put him out. Gaziev could have rushed in for more punishment, but he walked off in fashion.
Check out the video highlights in the above player.
Gaziev, 34, is now 3-1 under the UFC banner and may have just scored another chance at the heavyweight top 15. The Russian finisher still needs to show he has enough cardio to go three hard rounds, but this is a great way to begin 2025.
LIVE! Stream UFC Saudi Arabia On ESPN+
MIDDLEWEIGHT MAYHEM! Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heads back to ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sat., Feb. 1, 2025, with an important 185-pound main event featuring former division champion, Israel Adesanya, taking on fast-rising French sensation, Nassourdine Imavov. In addition, undefeated hometown hero, Shara Magomedov, looks to defend his home turf against savvy striker and former Bellator MMA bruiser, Michael Page, in UFC Saudi Arabia’s hard-hitting co-headliner.
For complete UFC Saudi Arabia results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
