Rafael Fiziev feels ‘another day in office’ vibe despite 532 day layoff ahead of UFC 313 war with Justin Gaethje

UFC fighter Rafael Fiziev makes his UFC comeback against Justin Gaethje after almost two years since his knee injury.

Rafael Fiziev feels ‘another day in office’ vibe despite 532 day layoff ahead of UFC 313 war with Justin Gaethje

Rafael Fiziev isn't worried about fighting Justin Gaethje after a huge hiatus (via Imago/MMA Fighting)

UFC lightweight superstar Justin Gaethje returns to MMA action this Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The ‘Highlight’ will take on his old rival Rafael Fiziev for a three-round co-main event clash, which has crazy hype. Despite being on short notice, Fiziev remains unbothered by the lack of time.

Fiziev’s last fight was against Mateusz Gamrot in 2023, where he suffered a loss due to a knee injury. By the time he steps into the octagon for his upcoming bout, he will have been out of action for 532 days. In a recent interview, Fiziev shared his thoughts on taking a fight on short notice after such a long layoff.

I’m a fighter. I have to be ready everyday. For tomorrow, with anybody. For me, it’s like another day in the office. 

Rafael Fiziev via UFC 
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In the second round against Gamrot, Fiziev tore his ACL and the fight was stopped immediately. He had faced a similar injury back in 2020 and recovering from it took its time. The Azerbaijan national was cleared to fight last October, and was eager to get back inside the octagon. 

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When Dan Hooker got injured and pulled out of UFC 313, Fiziev didn’t waste time to sign up for the fight. In their first fight, Fiziev got a taste of the humble pie after his devastating decision loss against Gaethje. It was an absolute war and many fans and experts believe that the rematch would be the same. 

UFC veteran predicts Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313

Justin Gaethje is known for being an aggressive pressure fighter with powerful leg kicks, relentless forward movement, and knockout power. Despite being a former NCAA Division I wrestler, he rarely grapples, preferring wild brawls. His iron chin, cardio, and ability to absorb damage make him a fan favorite, earning him multiple Fight of the Night awards.

Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev fight at UFC 286
Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev fight at UFC 286 (via X)

Something similar happened last time when Gaethje fought Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286. It was a brutal fight and Fiziev was able to stand and bang with the former interim lightweight champion. In the end, a bloody Fiziev lost a majority decision. Going into the weekend, former UFC champion Dominick Cruz shared his excitement for the co-main event. 

It’s a great opportunity for Fiziev and I tip my hat to Gaethje for giving the opportunity….So, it’ll be a fun fight, just like it was the first time. They both went to the hospital. I have no doubt it’s going to be the same way this time.

Dominick Cruz via Helen Yee Sports 
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Fiziev is desperate to get a win, build a winning momentum and beating Gaethje would serve that. On the other hand, the ‘Highlight’ plans to knockout his opponent and potentially fight the lightweight champion Islam Makhachev next. However, with his last loss against Max Holloway, there are definitely some doubts about his chin. 

Related: UFC Top 5 ‘Knockouts of the Year’ 2024