5 retirement fights for Rafael dos Anjos

Rafael dos Anjos has a professional record of 31-14
Rafael dos Anjos has a professional record of 31-14

#4. Rafael dos Anjos vs. Jalin Turner

Jalin Turner has a record of 13-5
Jalin Turner has a record of 13-5

The logic behind a potential Ismagulov vs. dos Anjos matchup can be applied to the next entry on this list—Jalin Turner sits just one spot above Damir Ismagulov in the rankings at No.14.

Turner's latest performance, however, was much more impressive than Ismagulov's, so he is riding some serious momentum after his first-round submission over Brad Riddell.

The result was Turner's biggest test to date, and he passed with flying colors, finishing Riddell via guillotine inside a minute at UFC 276. He's still improving at just 27 years old and could be set to become a true star in the sport. With that in mind, the UFC would be smart to match him up with a big-name opponent.

Rafael dos Anjos would certainly provide that for him, which could create a fun matchup that suits both men. dos Anjos has fought against some of the biggest names in the sport, and with Turner seemingly set to be a top lightweight for many years, it would be fitting to see him join that company.


#3. Rafael dos Anjos vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov

Shavkat Rakhmonov has a record of 16-0
Shavkat Rakhmonov has a record of 16-0

It is very possible that Rafael dos Anjos will opt against cutting down to lightweight at this stage of his career, given that his pursuit of the 155 pound belt is likely over. He could very well not want to put himself through that grueling process anymore.

If he instead opts to compete in the welterweight division, there is no shortage of fun matchups to be had. While Shavkat Rakhmonov is not an opponent that fighters are lining up to compete against, dos Anjos has proven he's not one to back down from a challenge.

Rakhmonov has demolished all his opponents to date, and in truth there aren't too many fights that make sense for him. dos Anjos would be a significant step up in competition for Rakhmonov, which could create an intriguing bout without rushing the young star too soon.

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