Relive the intense co-main event clash between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev at UFC. The fight took place in Las Vegas and was broadcast on ESPN+ PPV.
Justin Gaethje secured a victory over Rafael Fiziev by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 29-28 in his favor.
Here’s a round-by-round breakdown of the fight:
Round 1
The first round saw early grappling exchanges with Fiziev briefly taking Gaethje down. Fiziev landed a knee and secured a reverse triangle position momentarily. Both fighters exchanged strikes at distance, with Fiziev landing effectively and seemingly taking the round according to MMA Fighting’s scoring.
Round 2
Gaethje started to find his range, landing solid hooks. Fiziev landed a body kick that strayed low, causing a brief pause. Both fighters traded heavy strikes, with Gaethje landing significant right hands. Late in the round, Gaethje dropped Fiziev with an uppercut and followed up with more punches, winning the round on MMA Fighting’s scorecard and evening the fight.
Round 3
The final round was met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd. Gaethje consistently pressured Fiziev, who utilized spinning attacks and body kicks. Gaethje landed uppercuts and combinations. Fiziev connected with a high kick, but Gaethje continued to push forward, securing the round and the fight on MMA Fighting’s scorecard, ultimately leading to his unanimous decision victory.
The fight was a thrilling back-and-forth battle that many wished could have been extended to five rounds.
