Rafael dos Anjos expects to enter title contention if victorious against Rafael Fiziev at UFC on ESPN 39

Rafael dos Anjos wants to be part of the title conversation.

A former UFC champion not only hopes to be considered as challenger to the lightweight belt, but also expects to be there soon if all goes well for him on Saturday night. Dos Anjos (32-13 MMA, 20-11 UFC) takes on Rafael Fiziev in the main event of UFC on ESPN 39 in Las Vegas.

“That’s my goal, man, come in here and make a big statement and throw my name in the title contention,” Dos Anjos told reporters including MMA Underground on Thursday at a pre-fight news conference. “All the guys who are ahead of me, they’re coming from a loss or they have a loss to the champion already, besides Islam. He has never beat a top 10 guy. He’s supposed to fight Beneil (Dariush) like Dana (White) said, but maybe this is going to change, I don’t know. I have to think about Fiziev and put on a great performance and throw my name out there. I want my name to be on that title contention.”

Dos Anjos looks to make it three in a row Saturday. He’s 2-0 since he returned to lightweight in late 2020. Wins since include Paul Felder and Renato Moicano.

Dos Anjos considers Fiziev (11-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC) a serious threat. Fiziev is on a five-fight wining streak with only one career defeat.

“For me, it’s a big challenge, too,” Dos Anjos said. “I’m taking Fiziev real seriously. I put on tons of work, as always. Smart work. I feel great for this fight and I think it will be a great show for the fans.”