Rafael Fiziev Withdraws From UFC Rio Main Event Due To Injury

Rafael Fiziev has withdrawn from the UFC Rio main event scheduled for October 11, 2025, due to injury, leaving Charles Oliveira without an opponent for the lightweight headliner. Fiziev, who has struggled recently with a 1-3 record in his last four fights, was set to face Oliveira in Brazil, marking Oliveira's first fight on home soil since 2020. Oliveira is coming off a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria and was aiming to bounce back in front of his home crowd. UFC matchmakers are actively searching for a replacement opponent, with Renato "Money" Moicano mentioned as a possible short-notice contender. The UFC Rio event will still feature other notable Brazilian fighters such as Deiveson Figueiredo and Vicente Luque and will be broadcast live on ESPN+ from Farmasi Arena. The UFC has yet to officially confirm the changes, but efforts are underway to keep Oliveira on the card and preserve the event's appeal.