Curtis Blaydes faced a significant challenge when he tore his MCL during the first round of his fight against UFC newcomer Rizvan Kuniev at UFC Baku on June 21, 2025. Despite the serious knee injury, Blaydes managed to adjust his strategy mid-fight and earned a hard-fought split decision win inside the Baku Crystal Hall in Azerbaijan. The incident tested his resilience and experience under intense pressure.
Injury Forces Blaydes to Abandon Initial Strategy
Blaydes started strong, using his wrestling skills to control the opening round. However, when his MCL gave way during an attempted lift, he was forced to abandon his original plan. He pivoted from his dominant wrestling approach to a more cautious style, adapting in real-time to protect his injured knee while still competing. This change exposed him to more stand-up exchanges, where he was vulnerable to Kuniev’s strikes.
Veteran Fighter Relies on Experience to Adapt
Reflecting on his injury and performance, Blaydes told UFC.com,
“My MCL popped or tweaked in the first round. I went to lift him, it gave, and I had to throw the game plan out and switch to an audible on the move.”
He added,
“I’m happy I was able to figure it out because I literally had to rethink how to step, how to move, how to shoot on the fly—that’s a credit to my experience and being in the UFC for so many years.”
Challenges During the Match Due to Injury
Blaydes openly discussed the difficult moments in the fight, explaining that his injury impacted his timing and movement.
“I know I can do better, but given the circumstances of being injured, that’s what you guys got,”
he said. He also noted,
“My corner wanted me to be first because he was tagging me when I was just sitting and waiting, which obviously you should do. But I was waiting because I was trying to figure out how to move with my knee, and that’s when he was catching me. He was interrupting me, which is what I should have been doing to him…I had to rethink how to fight.”
Return to the Win Column After Tough Setbacks
This victory marks Blaydes’ return to winning form after his previous loss by knockout to Tom Aspinall. Securing a split decision in such a close contest underlines his toughness and adaptability despite injury. The outcome is significant as Blaydes looks ahead to recovery and gearing up for future bouts.
Blaydes’ Recovery and Future Plans
Blaydes aims to recover fully by the end of the year and is targeting a bout with a ranked opponent upon his return. His ability to overcome this knee injury and still claim victory demonstrates both his determination and experience within the UFC heavyweight division.