What happened: Rafael Fiziev publicly reflected on Justin Gaethje's success after sharing the Octagon with him twice. Fiziev admitted he hadn't wanted a Gaethje fight against Ilia Topuria, fearing Topuria could land damage, but said he began screaming by the end of the second round as the bout turned. The remarks came in an emotional tribute to Gaethje.
Why it matters: The comments underline the respect Gaethje commands across the lightweight division after his win over Topuria. For Fiziev, who has twice faced Gaethje, the praise carries added weight and frames how a marquee result reverberates among the contenders chasing the same title picture.
By the numbers: Fiziev improved to 14-5 with a second-round KO/TKO of Manuel Torres in the UFC Baku main event. He has shared the Octagon with Gaethje twice over his career.
What to watch: Watch whether Fiziev parlays his Baku win and his standing among lightweights into a step up in competition as the division reshuffles behind Gaethje.