Fighters » Fares Ziam
Fares “Smile Killer” Ziam is a French mixed martial artist who has built a strong record in the UFC’s competitive Lightweight division.
Born into a Franco-Algerian family in Vénissieux, France, Ziam was surrounded by combat sports from a young age. His father was a professional boxer, and other family members practiced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. He began training in full contact at 12 and was hooked on MMA after watching fights on television. Before joining the UFC, he was a successful kickboxer, winning the ISKA K-1 European Light-middleweight title in 2015. He also captured lightweight titles in the HIT and Lyon Fighting Championship MMA promotions.
Notable Fights in the UFC
Ziam is a well-rounded fighter known for his sharp striking, but has also shown solid takedown defense and grappling skills. The following bouts represent some of the most significant moments in his UFC career.
- vs. Matt Frevola (Win by KO – September 28, 2024): This victory stands as the biggest highlight of Ziam’s UFC career. Fighting in front of his home crowd in Paris, he knocked out Frevola with a devastating knee in the third round. This win earned him his first UFC Performance of the Night bonus and marked his first finish inside the Octagon.
- vs. Mike Davis (Win by Unanimous Decision – February 1, 2025): In a display of his technical striking and composure, Ziam defeated the dangerous Mike Davis. This unanimous decision victory extended his winning streak and demonstrated his ability to compete against powerful opponents in the division.
- vs. Terrance McKinney (Loss by Submission – February 26, 2022): This fight is notable as Ziam’s sole loss in his last five outings. He was caught in a rear-naked choke in the first round by the explosive McKinney.
- UFC Debut vs. Don Madge (Loss by Unanimous Decision – September 7, 2019): Ziam made his promotional debut as a short-notice replacement at UFC 242. He lost a unanimous decision to Don Madge, but the fight marked his entry into the world’s premier MMA organization.
