- Rafael Fiziev scored a late KO win over Rafael Dos Anjos
- “Ataman” wants the top guys in the division after beating the former champ
Rafael Fiziev showed up and delivered at UFC Vegas 58 as he stunned former lightweight champion Rafael Dos Anjos with a late KO victory. As expected, “Ataman” has now locked his eyes on a top-five guy.
RDA was evidently trying to take the fight to the ground for the most part but never really managed to control Fiziev. On the other hand, Fiziev relied on his striking which paid off in the fifth and final round when he landed a vicious left hook that knocked the Brazilian out.
Gaethje first, Charles next
In his post-fight press conference, Fiziev issued a challenge to current No. 3 ranked lightweight Justin Gaethje.
According to the 29-year-old, both he and Gaethje are yearning for huge fight with Oliveira but there can only be one rightful fighter for the job.
“I want to fight with Gaethje,” Fiziev said. “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.”
A KO is certain
While nothing is brewing yet between Fiziev and Gaethje, “Ataman” already made an early prediction. As per Fiziev’s assessment, both he and “The Highlight” has the ability to knock each other out.
“I think he would maybe make my face like this, maybe more hard,” Fiziev said, referring to his battered 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.”
As things stand, Fiziev is now on a six-fight winning streak with the last two coming by way of knockout. He will be breaking into the 155-pound division’s top 10 and is likely to face a top-10 fighter as well. Will it be Gaethje? Let’s wait and see.
