Ezidi mixed martial artist Rafik Avdoyan defeated Iranian opponent Aref Ansari by first-round submission during an international MMA event at Tashir Arena in Yerevan on 26 September 2026.
The fight took place in the 65.8-kilogram division on the preliminary card of the ARMAT Fight Show × Orion Fight Club event. Competing under Armenia, Avdoyan secured the victory with a choke and ended the contest before the conclusion of the opening round.
Avdoyan’s victory formed part of a successful evening for the fighters representing Armenia, who won 11 of the event’s 12 contests against opponents from Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Uzbekistan.
About Rafik Avdoyan
Born on 23 July 2000, Avdoyan is a professional Ezidi MMA fighter who competes in the lighter weight divisions. He is 170 centimetres tall and has competed at weights ranging from approximately 61 to 66 kilograms.
Avdoyan trains with Samson Fight Club in Krasnodar and began competing professionally in July 2018, when he won his debut by unanimous decision. His career has since included appearances in several MMA promotions and victories by decision, submission and stoppage.
His first-round finish against Ansari in Yerevan adds another international victory to his developing professional career and brings further visibility to Ezidi athletes in mixed martial arts.
