In a pivotal light heavyweight clash headlining the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s historic first visit to Baku, Azerbaijan, Khalil Rountree Jr. delivered a career-defining performance, securing a dominant unanimous decision victory over former champion Jamahal Hill. The event, held at the Baku Crystal Hall on Saturday, June 21, 2025, saw Rountree Jr. put the division on notice with a tactical masterclass.
The fight marked a crucial moment for both contenders. For Jamahal Hill, nicknamed “Sweet Dreams,” it represented an attempt to rebound from a challenging period, having suffered consecutive knockout losses since his title-winning performance in January 2023. Hill sought his first win in over two years in his 11th Octagon appearance.
Khalil Rountree Jr., competing for the first time in 2025, was also looking to bounce back, though from a highly competitive championship bout loss to Alex Pereira last October. Prior to that, Rountree Jr. had compiled an impressive five-fight win streak, including notable stoppage victories over fighters like Anthony Smith and Chris Daukaus.
Rountree’s Dominant Performance
From the opening bell, Rountree Jr. implemented a smart, composed strategy that centered on relentless attacks to Hill’s lead leg. Employing heavy low kicks, Rountree Jr. visibly compromised Hill’s mobility early and often. He effectively maintained distance, using tactical footwork to stay out of Hill’s range while landing power punches consistently.
Hill, known for his potent striking, struggled to find his rhythm or effectively counter due to the damage accumulating on his leg. While output from both fighters was relatively low at times, Rountree Jr. landed the more impactful shots throughout the five rounds.
The third round proved particularly significant, with Rountree Jr.’s calf kicks causing severe damage and further slowing the former champion. Later in the round, Rountree Jr. punctuated his performance by dropping Hill with a well-timed counter left hand. Despite the significant leg damage and knockdown, Hill showcased incredible toughness and heart, continuing to fight, though his ability to mount effective offense was clearly hindered.
The fight went the full 25 minutes, with the judges rendering a decisive verdict in favor of Khalil Rountree Jr., scoring the bout 49-46, 50-45, and 50-45.
Implications for the Light Heavyweight Division
For Jamahal Hill, the loss marks his third consecutive defeat, extending a difficult stretch since vacating the title due to injury in 2023. His path back to contention now appears significantly more challenging.
Khalil Rountree Jr., however, cemented his position among the division’s top contenders with this dominant performance. Following the victory, Rountree Jr. wasted no time in expressing his desire for another shot at the light heavyweight championship, calling for a fight against the current titleholder or another top opponent to reach the belt.
Other Key Results from UFC Baku
The historic UFC Baku event featured several other compelling matchups across the card.
In the lightweight co-main event, Rafael Fiziev snapped a three-fight losing streak with a unanimous decision win (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) over Ignacio Bahamondes.
Heavyweight veteran Curtis Blaydes secured a split decision victory (29-28, 28-29, 29-28) against Rizvan Kuniev.
Myktybek Orolbai spoiled the homecoming for Tofiq Musayev, securing a first-round submission (kimura) win at 4:35.
Nazim Sadykhov thrilled the local crowd with a second-round knockout (punches) victory over Nikolas Motta at 4:17.
UFC Baku delivered an action-packed night, highlighted by Khalil Rountree Jr.’s commanding performance in the main event, reshaping the landscape of the light heavyweight division.
