Rafael dos Anjos vs. Rafael Fiziev moved to UFC 272 co-main event

Next weekend’s UFC Fight Night main event has been moved on just eight days notice.

As first reported by Ariel Helwani, visa issues concerning Rafael Fiziev have forced his proposed five-round fight with Rafael dos Anjos to move to March 5th and into a co-main event billing for UFC 272.

Despite being a non-title bout nor a headline act, the lightweight clash is expected to remain a five-round contest while a light heavyweights Johnny Walker and Jamahal Hill are set to takeover the main event post for UFC Fight Night 201.

Next weekend’s Rafael dos Anjos vs. Rafael Fiziev is likely being moved to the UFC 272 co-main event slot on March 5, sources say. It would remain a five-round fight. Delay in securing Fiziev’s visa was the issue. No word on new 2/19 main just yet. Walker-Hill is 2nd to last.

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 11, 2022

Fiziev (11-1) is currently on a five-fight winning streak inside of the octagon and will enter next month’s bout coming off of a third-round spinning wheel kick KO of Brad Riddell. The #11 ranked lightweight contender would lose in his promotional debut in 2019 but has since defeated the likes of Marc Diakiese, Renato Moicano and Bobby Green.

Dos Anjos (30-13) meanwhile will look to continue his successful return to the lightweight division after a three-year stint at the welterweight limit. Following back-to-back losses at 170 lbs, Dos Anjos would return to the weight class where he won UFC gold in 2020 with a split decision victory over Paul Felder. Currently ranked #6 in the UFC’s rankings, the Brazilian’s 14-years with the promotion has seen the 37-year old defeat Donald Cerrone (x2), Nate Diaz, Anthony Pettis and Robbie Lawler.