Rafael dos Anjos remains one of the best contenders in the UFC regardless of the split.
Rafael dos Anjos continues his more than a decade long journey in the UFC when he steps into the Octagon at UFC Vegas 58. This time, he’s competing against a rising prospect at Rafael Fiziev, in a match that will either keep dos Anjos as a top contender or see him replaced by a young talent.
“This is just another day in the office. It’s my 11th main event and bless at this time,” dos Anjos said during the media day interview. “My goal is to come here, make a big statement and have my name in the title race. My name must be in a title dispute.”
Dos Anjos is currently ranked seventh in the lightweight category, and a victory over Viziev will certainly keep him in the top ten. Fyzyev is currently in 10th place and wants to break through by beating a former champion.
“He’s always a challenge, he’s a strong fighter. We haven’t seen much of his game on the ground and his wrestling skills, but we’re sure he has some,” dos Anjos said of Viziev. Moving to Brazil modernized my career. I’m in great spirits and in good shape, too.”
Dos Anjos last competed at UFC 272 where he faced Renato Moikano in a 25-minute contest. This built his win streak up to two in a row, rebounding from his two-game losing streak and going 3-4 in his last seven.
Rafael dos Anjos deserves to be recognized as a “BMF” competitor
With over thirty fights in the Octagon, dos Anjos’ record is one that comes close to, if not already, Hall of Fame status. He took the lightweight championship again at UFC 185, where he defeated Anthony Pettis and fought for the provisional UFC welterweight title at UFC 225. His resume includes top champions and title contenders across both divisions.
“I fought in the UFC for 14 years and never backed away from the fight. I agreed to fight against the best players and went with them. Champions like Usman, Khabib and Colby. I fell short, but I went against them. If the fans thought I could be considered a BMF member too, I’m OK on it.”
UFC Vegas 58: Rafael dos Anjos vs.Rafael Fiziev takes place on Saturday, July 9, 2022, live from UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. Follow along with our on-site FanSided MMA for all the news and highlights.
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