Rafael Fiziev has acknowledged the possibility of a BMF title fight against Charles Oliveira, noting the two were previously scheduled to meet in October in Rio. Fiziev was modest about his chances at the BMF belt, saying he considers himself far from such a fight and far from a legend like Oliveira, but conceded the promotion may look to make it happen.
Rafael Fiziev has acknowledged that a BMF title fight against Charles Oliveira is a realistic possibility, though the Kazakhstani lightweight was openly humble about his standing compared to the Brazilian veteran, according to a report that has not yet been officially confirmed by the UFC.
Fiziev, 33, carries a 14-5 record and sits seventh in the lightweight division. Fighting out of Tiger Muay Thai, the switch-stance striker is one of the more prolific output fighters in the 155-pound class, landing 4.71 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy. He and Oliveira were previously scheduled to share the octagon in October in Rio de Janeiro before that booking fell apart. Fiziev was candid in his assessment, describing himself as far from a legend of Oliveira's stature and far from deserving a BMF belt, while conceding the promotion may push to make the fight happen regardless.
Oliveira, nicknamed Do Bronxs, is 36 years old and holds a 37-11 record, currently ranked third at lightweight and eleventh in the pound-for-pound standings. The Brazilian fights out of Chute Boxe Diego Lima and brings an exceptionally well-rounded game, averaging 2.22 takedowns and 2.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes alongside 3.35 significant strikes landed per minute at 54 percent accuracy. He is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous finishers in the sport's history.
Why it matters
- A BMF title fight would give both men a marquee bout without requiring a shot at the undisputed championship, which sits well above their current rankings
- Fiziev's high striking volume versus Oliveira's elite submission threat sets up a compelling style contrast
- With Arman Tsarukyan ranked first at lightweight at just 29 years old and holding a 23-3 record, the path to a title shot for either fighter is far from straightforward, making the BMF route an attractive alternative
