3 reasons why Rafael Fiziev could beat Justin Gaethje in rematch at UFC 313

In the current UFC landscape, the lightweight division is arguably one of the most competitive weight categories in the promotion. Islam Makhachev currently reigns as the champion of the 155-pound division, but many fighters are stepping up to prove their mettle. Notably, Rafael Fiziev has agreed to fight Justin Gaethje this weekend on short notice.

Initially, the co-main headliner fight at UFC 313 was scheduled to feature Dan Hooker against Justin Gaethje. However, a week ago, the Kiwi fighter had to withdraw. While there were many potential replacements for Hooker in the UFC 313 co-main event, Rafael Fiziev did not hesitate to accept the fight against Gaethje on short notice. This was eventually commended by the ‘Highlight’ as well.

As fight weekend approaches, both fighters are confident in their abilities to defeat each other. Interestingly, the upcoming clash between Gaethje and Fiziev will be a rematch. Considering the outcome of their previous encounter, Gaethje is brimming high in confidence. However, let’s explore the aspects that could give ‘Ataman’ Fiziev an edge against the ‘Highlight.’

3. Tactically using his Muay Thai prowess

Rafael Fiziev has an intriguing story about his journey in combat sports. At the age of 11, he faced significant bullying. In his quest to better himself and respond to the bullies, Fiziev decided to take up Muay Thai and dedicated himself to rigorous training sessions. Now, with more than two decades of experience in the sport, the ‘Ataman’ effectively utilizes his skills after transitioning to MMA.

Muay Thai is also referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs.” It originated in the vibrant lands of Thailand and primarily involves stand-up striking, sweeps, and various clinching techniques. The term “Art of Eight Limbs” highlights the use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins in combat. As for Fiziev, the Azerbaijani fighter spends much of his time training at Tiger Muay Thai in Thailand.

Over the years, the UFC community has seen numerous standout fighters who demonstrated exceptional skills in Muay Thai. Notable examples include Jon Jones, Anderson Silva, and Jose Aldo, all of whom made a significant impact on the sport. Similarly, ‘Ataman’ Fiziev has also overcome many tough challenges with his Muay Thai expertise in promotion.

2. Justin Gaethje’s habit of blatantly committing during standup exchanges

The ‘Highlight’ Justin Gaethje is one of the most explosive fighters in the UFC lightweight division. Throughout his career, he has participated in some of the most brutal fights in the promotion’s history. Most recently, the ‘Highlight’ came out to fight against Max Holloway at UFC 300. This match garnered considerable attention as Gaethje got brutally stunned by Holloway in the last few seconds of the fight.

Despite Gaethje’s impressive skill and striking ability, his fight against Holloway revealed significant shortcomings in his style. The ‘Highlight’ is widely regarded as one of the hardest hitters in the UFC lightweight division. However, during his UFC 300 bout, the Hawaiian native came well-prepared. While Gaethje landed powerful hooks and jabs, Holloway remained cautious and effectively countered most of them.

Fiziev boasts impressive skills in Muay Thai, which are particularly effective during close stand-up exchanges. Given these technical aspects of fighting styles, the Azerbaijani fighter can look to how Holloway neutralized Gaethje for guidance. With careful planning and execution, Fiziev has the potential to enhance his reputation in the UFC by defeating a fighter like ‘Highlight’.

1. Rafael Fiziev effectively utilizing his reach advantage

A fighter’s attributes, such as reach advantage, are essential tools in mixed martial arts. In the UFC community, light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira exemplifies how to effectively utilize reach in fights. In his most recent match, ‘Poatan’ dominated and had a blood bath with his opponent, Khalil Rountree. Similarly, Rafael Fiziev can also make good use of his reach advantage against Justin Gaethje.

According to UFC statistics, Fiziev has a three-centimeter reach advantage over Gaethje. While this difference isn’t substantial, it depends on how the Azerbaijani fighter utilizes it. However, in their previous encounter, ‘Ataman’ was unable to defeat ‘Highlight.’ Although many considered the matchup between Gaethje and Fiziev to be closely contested, the American fighter won by majority decision.

There is still considerable uncertainty about how a rematch between Gaethje and Fiziev would unfold. One key reason for this is that the ‘Highlight’ has recently developed a tendency to deliver impressive performances in his comeback fights. While statistics and advantages may favor Fiziev, Gaethje possesses tremendous power that could significantly influence the fight’s outcome.

Related: 3 opponents Ilia Topuria could face before getting Islam Makhachev dream fight 

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