Sean Shelby's Shoes: What's next for Rafael Fiziev after UFC on ESPN 39 win?
(ALSO SEE: Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s next for Rafael dos Anjos after UFC on ESPN 39 loss?)
Rafael Fiziev elevated his career to the next level on Saturday when he halted former champion Rafael dos Anjos inside the distance in the UFC on ESPN 39 main event.
Fiziev (12-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) shined in his first octagon headliner. He caught dos Anjos (32-14 MMA, 20-12 UFC) with a clean shot in the fifth round of their lightweight bout at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, securing a knockout win that pushed his winning streak to six consecutive fights.
After the very solid performance, Fiziev directed his energy toward a callout of Justin Gaethje, who he said would make for a high-action contest for the fans and serve as another step forward in his own career.
Should the UFC grant Fiziev’s wish and give him a showdown with Gaethje (23-4 MMA, 6-4 UFC) next? Or should it go in a different direction? Watch the video above for thoughts and analysis on Fiziev’s future after UFC on ESPN 39.