‘He’s Dangerous Also and a Big Challenge for Me’- Rafael Fiziev Believes There’s a Chance Justin Gaethje Could Knock Him Out In a Potential Fight
UFC lightweight Rafael Fiziev made a huge statement at UFC on ESPN 39 when he finished former champion Rafael dos Anjos, 18 seconds into the final round. Fiziev found success with his striking early on and his takedown defense was able to stand up to the test as well.
‘RDA’ also landed well throughout the fight, but a large majority of the MMA fraternity had it 3-1 in favor of Rafael Fiziev going into the fifth round. Chiefly, the belief was that Fiziev was getting tired heading into the final round as he was showing some signs of gassing out. However, Fiziev dispelled that narrative quickly and showed that he truly belongs.
Speaking to reporters after the biggest win of his MMA career, Rafael Fiziev called out Justin Gaethje, who is coming off a loss to Charles Oliveira. This will no doubt be a high-action affair, and fans are already pumped up about the action.
RAFAEL FIZIEV JUST PUT RDA OUT IN ROUND FIVE #UFCVegas58 pic.twitter.com/hW8hwiCsdT
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) July 10, 2022
“Yeah, you know I want to fight with Gaethje… Gaethje, if you want to fight, one more yellow guy with yellow hairs (Charles Oliveira), we need to know who’s best.”
“That’s a good match for you and me. If you’re ready, and you’re not scared, don’t talk sh*t and let’s go.”
Ready to keep climbing the ranks 📈
Who's next for 𝑨𝑻𝑨𝑴𝑨𝑵?
[ @RafaelFiziev | #UFCVegas58 ] pic.twitter.com/c62QTNmLdm
— UFC (@ufc) July 10, 2022
Moreover, Fiziev was open about the fact that facing Justin Gaethje would be a challenge for him since Gaethje always brings forth a hellacious pace in his fights. Regardless, Fiziev is determined to make his mark as the next man in line for the title.
“I think he would maybe make my face like this, maybe more hard,” Fiziev said as he pointed to his battle-worn face. “He’s dangerous also and a big challenge for me. I think he has a lot of chance to knock me out, and I have a lot of chance to knock him out. That’s a good fight, I think, for fans also.” [h/t mmajunkie.com]
Fans will be eagerly awaiting the news of the booking as it’s most definitely going to be a ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate.
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