UFC 313 is set for March 8, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, and the co-main event has taken on new excitement with the announcement of Justin Gaethje facing Rafael Fiziev. This matchup arises after Dan Hooker was forced to withdraw due to injury.
Initially, Hooker was set to take on the electrifying Gaethje (25-5), but he suffered a hand injury, reported just under two weeks before the fight. UFC's quick decision to find Hooker's replacement brings Fiziev (12-3) back to the Octagon for the first time since his knee injury against Mateusz Gamrot.
This rematch carries significant weight as their prior encounter, held at UFC 286, ended with Gaethje winning by majority decision, earning both fighters the coveted 'Fight of the Night' award. Almost two years to the day after their initial clash, both fighters are eager to capture victory.
Gaethje is coming off mixed results, having posted one win and one loss since their last fight. He knocked out Dustin Poirier to win the BMF title but suffered a heart-breaking knockout loss to Max Holloway during UFC 300. Ranked third lightweight contender by the UFC, his desire to reclaim momentum fuels his eagerness for this bout.
Fiziev, on the other hand, has battled adversity outside the ring. Having not fought since September 2023 due to recovering from ACL surgery, he sees this bout as not only his comeback but also as a chance for revenge against Gaethje—a fighter who previously disrupted his rising career and unbeaten streak.
Prior to his injury, Fiziev saw rapid success within the UFC, amassing six victories, with notable wins coming over fighters like Renato Moicano and Rafael dos Anjos. His outstanding Muay Thai foundation makes him one of the most dangerous strikers to step inside the Octagon. Despite the lengthy layoff and significant surgery, Fiziev is determined to make his mark once again.
The stakes keep rising as both competitors prepare. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the match-up live, stating, “Fiziev raised his hand and now he’ll run it back with Justin Gaethje.” This unexpected change keeps the fans engaged, underscoring the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts.
UFC 313 features more than just this high-profile co-main event. The card is headlined by the light heavyweight championship clash between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev, promising to deliver thrilling bouts throughout the night. Additional matchups include Jalin Turner against Ignacio Bahamondes and Amanda Lemos versus Iasmin Lucindo, captivating fans far and wide.
Gaethje, known for his explosive fighting style, is eager to demonstrate his prowess when facing Fiziev again. Over the years, fans have come to appreciate Gaethje as one of the most electrifying athletes within the UFC, renowned for engaging bouts filled with ferocity and technical precision.
Fiziev’s determination to upend Gaethje during this rematch is palpable, and with both fighters having been apex competitors, the match is anticipated to be nothing short of spectacular. The rematch, albeit shorter, now scheduled as three rounds due to the replacement nature, promises relentless action as both fighters strive for supremacy.
With just days left until UFC 313, the excitement continues to build. Fight fans around the world are eager to see how this thrilling rematch plays out and if Fiziev can claim the revenge victory he’s sought since their last bout. Meanwhile, Gaethje is poised to avenge his own prior defeat at the hands of circumstance as he seeks to reestablish his footing within the division.
This event is more than just another fight; it is filled with emotions, wrested narratives, and dedication from both sides. Whether it is Gaethje gaining redemption or Fiziev proving his worth once again, March 8 at UFC 313 will surely be highlighted on many fans' calendars.