Top-15 UFC lightweight contender, Rafael Fiziev is sure to leapfrog former training partner, Brad Riddell upon the release of the updated reankings next week — following a massive third round wheel kick in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 44.
Expected to provide fireworks from the onset and throughout, former Tiger Muay Thai sparring partners, Riddell and Fiziev obliged each other immediately — with the two exchanging sharp strikes inside the pocket during each exchange.
Slipping Riddell with a beautifully timed elbow in the middle of the second round, Fiziev began to really find his range with countering and winging hooks in the pocket as Riddell managed to find himself on top following two well-timed takedown attempts.
Rafael Fiziev stops former sparring partner Brad Riddell with a highlight-reel wheel kick
Removing the judges from the equation in a relatively close fight, Fiziev launched a picture-perfect wheel kick as Riddell circled beside the Octagon fence, clipping him flush resulting his in his fifth consecutive victory.
Below, catch the highlights from Rafael Fiziev’s wheel kick knockout win over Brad Riddell.