Mixed martial arts is more than just a sport for some—it’s a calling. For Fares Ziam, the journey into the cage started long before he ever laced up a pair of gloves. ‘Smile Killer’ was born into a family where combat sports were a way of life. With a former professional boxer for a father and family members who practiced Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai, fighting was in his blood. But destiny didn’t just hand him success—he had to fight for it.

From the streets of Vénissieux, France, to the bright lights of the UFC, Ziam’s rise has been anything but ordinary. But who is Fares Ziam beyond the Octagon? Where does he come from, and what fuels his fighting spirit?

What is Fares Ziam’s nationality & background?

Fares Ziam was born in 1997 in Vénissieux, a suburb of Lyon, France. He comes from a Franco-Algerian background. His father, Taïeb, was a professional boxer who retired in the early 2000s, but his influence never faded. It was through him that Ziam first developed an interest in fighting, but his love for MMA came from an entirely different source—television.

In a previous interview, ‘Smile Killer’ revealed, “I discovered the world of MMA thanks to RTL 9, which was the first channel to broadcast fights (in France), and I immediately became hooked.”

What started as fascination quickly turned into action. By 12, he was training in full-contact combat sports. At 13, he added Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, and MMA to his weekly routine. By 14, he was practicing judo, sharpening his ground game while continuing to develop his striking. Over the years, he competed in multiple disciplines, winning several national youth titles before turning professional in 2014.

Determined to take his skills to the next level, Ziam joined the Ezbiri team in Villeurbanne. His early career saw him dominate the European circuit, capturing lightweight titles in regional promotions like HIT and LFC. His breakout moment came in 2019 when he made his UFC debut at UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi as a late replacement. Though he lost his first fight against Don Madge by decision, it was clear—‘Smile Killer’ was built for the big leagues!

‘Smile Killer’s religion and more

Fares Ziam is a practicing Muslim and often shares messages of faith with his followers, particularly during religious celebrations like Eid. His spirituality plays a significant role in his life, grounding him amid the chaos of professional fighting.

In his latest Octagon appearance in September 2024, he delivered the biggest performance of his UFC career. Fighting on home soil at the Accor Arena in Paris, Ziam put on a striking clinic against Matt Frevola, showcasing his sharp technique and composure.

Just as the fight seemed destined to go the distance, Ziam unleashed a vicious knee from a back waistlock, knocking Frevola out cold. The crowd erupted as he secured his first UFC finish and extended his win streak to four. It also won him his first ‘Performance of the Night’ bonus!

With momentum on his side, Ziam now prepares for his next challenge. His upcoming fight will take him to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he’ll face the dangerous Mike Davis at UFC Fight Night 250. In a conversation with UFC.com ahead of this crucial matchup, Ziam confessed, “Mike Davis is gonna come to wrestle, because he thinks he’s better than me. But this is not the way it’s gonna go, because he’s going to be tired after my takedown defense. I think I’m going to finish him. But, if I win by decision, it’s OK, too. It’ll just be a very good fight.”

Will he add another highlight-reel finish to his growing resume and continue his surge towards the top of the UFC’s lightweight division? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!