UFC lightweight contender Rafael Fiziev shared his mindset leading up to his second bout against Justin Gaethje, scheduled for March 9 in Las Vegas at UFC 313.
Fiziev accepted the fight on short notice, stepping in for Dan Hooker who suffered a broken arm during training.
Rafael Fiziev for DAZN
Of course, I said yes, because if I see the perfect battle, I cannot say no. I wish Hooker a speedy recovery. But this fight against Gaethje really surprises me. Short notice? Yes. It's not easy. It's a very big risk, but I love this risk. This is my life. If I can't fight with somebody tomorrow, I can't call myself a fighter today. For me, 10 days, this is enough time. I'm really feeling good.
Their first encounter took place in March 2023 at UFC 286, ending with a majority decision victory for Gaethje.
Fiziev last entered the octagon in September 2023 at UFC Fight Night 228, where he lost to Mateusz Gamrot by technical knockout in the second round. His record stands at 12 wins and three losses.
Gaethje's last fight was in April 2024 at UFC 300, where he lost to Max Holloway by knockout in the fifth round. He has a record of 25 wins and five losses.
