Rafael Fiziev Predicts Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira From UFC 294

In the main event of UFC Vegas 79 at the Apex this weekend, the lightweight division flexes its strength in depth with Rafael Fiziev against Mateusz Gamrot.

Sitting at #6 and #7 in the 155-pound rankings, it’s a great fight for either man to secure an even bigger fight next time.

With only Michael Chandler, Beneil Dariush, Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira and champion Islam Makhachev ahead of them, both men have a great opportunity to make a statement and prove they belong in that exclusive club.

A victory for either contender will also have them looking closely at a showdown at the top of the division next month. At UFC 294, Islam Makhachev will defend his lightweight belt in a rematch with Charles Oliveira.

Since their first fight at UFC 280 last year, both men have secured big wins with Makhachev beating Alexander Volkanovski, while Oliveira went and stopped Beneil Dariush in the first round. As they prepare for the rematch, Fiziev gave his opinion on the matchup and if he thinks the result will be different this time around.

Although he gave a lot of credit to Oliveira for the dangers he presented, he believes Makhachev’s style makes it difficult for the Brazilian to be successful with his striking and submission skills.

“I imagine Islam, but still, Oliveira is a very dangerous guy. He is an elite grappler, an elite fighter and very good at hitting too, but yes, I imagine Islam because I think he has with Oliveira, his style is more difficult than Oliveira to do something for him. Sorry for my shitty English, I hope everyone understands .”