UFC 313: Gaethje vs. Fiziev Earns FOTN, Ruffy and Bahamondes Shine with $50K Bonus

UFC 313 delivered a night of thrilling action and unforgettable moments at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, headlined by Magomed Ankalaev’s unanimous decision victory over Alex Pereira to claim the light heavyweight championship. While the main event showcased Ankalaev’s tactical brilliance, the co-main event and undercard provided the night’s most electrifying highlights, earning well-deserved post-fight bonuses for several standout fighters.

Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev stole the show with a three-round war that earned Fight of the Night honors, while Mauricio Ruffy and Ignacio Bahamondes each pocketed $50,000 for their jaw-dropping performances. Here’s a closer look at the night’s bonus winners and their incredible achievements.

Fight of the Night: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev

In their highly anticipated rematch, Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev delivered another classic battle that had fans on their feet from start to finish. Fiziev started strong, utilizing his speed and precision striking to take the opening round. However, Gaethje’s legendary toughness and relentless pressure turned the tide in Rounds 2 and 3.

WHAT 👏 A 👏 REMATCH 👏 @Justin_Gaethje

Justin Gaethje goes 2/2 against Rafael Fiziev and gets the UD victory at #UFC313. pic.twitter.com/UFYRDfr46U

— Monster Energy (@MonsterEnergy) March 9, 2025

Gaethje landed a vicious uppercut in the second round that knocked Fiziev down and created significant swelling under his opponent’s eye. By the third round, “The Highlight” overwhelmed Fiziev with looping punches and head kicks, securing a unanimous decision victory (29-28 across all scorecards). The fight marked Gaethje’s 14th post-fight bonus in 14 UFC appearances, cementing his reputation as one of MMA’s most exciting fighters.

Performance of the Night: Mauricio Ruffy

Mauricio Ruffy may have locked up Knockout of the Year with a stunning spinning wheel kick that left King Green unconscious just two minutes into their bout. The Brazilian prospect feinted with a left hook before unleashing a perfectly timed spinning kick that landed flush on Green’s temple, sending him crumpling to the canvas.

SPINNING WHEEL KICK KNOCKOUT BY MAURICIO RUFFY‼️‼️

pic.twitter.com/e8PdxYcOLQ

— 🌴ᴛʜᴇᴀʀᴛᴏꜰᴡᴀʀ🌴 (@TheArtOfWar6) March 9, 2025

Ruffy’s knockout was not only a highlight-reel moment but also showcased his evolution as a striker under the tutelage of Brazil’s renowned Fighting Nerds camp. Now riding a three-fight UFC win streak, Ruffy has quickly become one of the most talked-about rising stars in the lightweight division. His $50,000 bonus was well-earned for what many are already calling one of the greatest knockouts in UFC history.

Performance of the Night: Ignacio Bahamondes

Ignacio Bahamondes delivered a career-defining performance against Jalin Turner, securing a first-round submission victory via triangle choke. Known primarily for his striking, Bahamondes surprised fans by showcasing his grappling skills after Turner attempted an ill-advised takedown. The Chilean fighter locked up the triangle choke midway through Round 1, forcing Turner to tap out.

IGNACIO BAHAMONDES SUBMITS JALIN TURNER IN ROUND ONE 🔥 #UFC313 pic.twitter.com/9ZpqramkgZ

— ESPN (@espn) March 9, 2025

This victory marked Bahamondes’ third consecutive finish and solidified his position as a serious contender in the lightweight division. Training alongside UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, Bahamondes continues to improve with each outing. His $50,000 bonus capped off an unforgettable night for the surging lightweight.

UFC 313 will be remembered not only for Magomed Ankalaev’s coronation as light heavyweight champion but also for its thrilling undercard performances. From Gaethje and Fiziev’s all-out war to Ruffy’s jaw-dropping knockout and Bahamondes’ slick submission, it was a night that showcased MMA at its finest.

With these performances setting the stage for future matchups, fans can look forward to seeing these fighters continue to make waves in their respective divisions. Whether it’s Gaethje inching closer to another title shot or Ruffy and Bahamondes climbing the ranks, UFC 313 proved once again why MMA remains one of the most exciting sports in the world.