Who is Rizvan Kuniev? Meet the Russian UFC heavyweight contender facing veteran fighter Alexander Volkov at UFC 333

Rizvan Kuniev (via Getty)

Rizvan Kuniev is a Russian mixed martial artist competing in the UFC heavyweight division. The Dagestan-born fighter has built his reputation through powerful striking, strong performances and victories across several MMA promotions. He previously held the Eagle FC heavyweight title before earning his opportunity in the UFC.Kuniev has recorded 14 wins, three losses, one draw and one no contest in his professional career. He is ranked No. 5 in the Meta UFC heavyweight rankings as of now. His upcoming fight against Alexander Volkov at UFC 333 on October 24, 2026, presents another major test.

Rizvan Magomedovich Kuniev was born on March 10, 1992, in Dagestan, Russia. He stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and competes at heavyweight. He fights out of Makhachkala, Russia, and trains with Gorets FT.Kuniev began his professional MMA career in 2011. He won his first fight against Anatoli Ciumac by unanimous decision. He later recorded victories through knockouts and decisions while gaining experience across different promotions.

His early career included losses to Darko Stosic and Justin Willis.

However, Kuniev continued improving. It eventually earned a shot at the Eagle FC heavyweight championship.In December 2020, Kuniev defeated Vladimir Dainenko by corner stoppage to win the title. He later defended his championship against former UFC fighter Anthony Hamilton at Eagle FC 46 in March 2022.Kuniev also competed on Dana White’s Contender Series in September 2021. He stopped Edivan Santos in the third round but did not receive a UFC contract at the time.His second appearance on the show came in August 2024 against Hugo Cunha. Kuniev delivered a first-round knockout and earned a UFC contract from Dana White.His UFC debut faced several delays. Kuniev was initially scheduled to fight Curtis Blaydes in February 2025. The bout was moved to March before Blaydes withdrew because of an undisclosed illness.The fight was eventually held in June 2025. Kuniev lost by split decision, although 11 of 13 media outlets scored the contest in his favour.Kuniev bounced back in February 2026. He defeated Jailton Almeida by unanimous decision after Ryan Spann withdrew from their scheduled matchup. The victory gave him an important result against an experienced UFC heavyweight.In July 2026, Kuniev faced Tyrell Fortune at UFC Fight Night 282. He stopped Fortune with knees in the second round and earned a $100,000 Fight of the Night award.

Before joining the UFC, Kuniev also competed in the Professional Fighters League.Kuniev has recorded seven knockout victories, two submission wins and five decision victories. His combination of power and experience has helped him establish himself among the UFC’s leading heavyweights.His next challenge is Alexander Volkov, a former Bellator and M-1 Global champion. The October 24 matchup could help Kuniev strengthen his position in the heavyweight division and move closer to a potential title opportunity.