UFC 313: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev Rematch Set for March 8

The UFC has announced a last-minute change to the highly anticipated UFC 313 card. Justin Gaethje will now face Rafael Fiziev in a rematch of their thrilling 2023 encounter, following an injury to Gaethje’s original opponent, Dan Hooker. The event is scheduled to take place on March 8 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, promising fight fans an explosive night of action.

This unexpected pairing comes with less than two weeks’ notice, showcasing the willingness of both fighters to step up to the challenge. Gaethje (25-5 MMA, 8-5 UFC) and Fiziev (12-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) first crossed paths at UFC 286 in March 2023, delivering a Fight of the Night performance that saw Gaethje emerge victorious via majority decision.

Arman and Charles understandably said no. Max and Dustin understandably said no. Moicano got the call and said no. Props to Fiziev for volunteering to fly across the world and take this fight. Big risk here for me taking this rematch against and elite striker. Life’s a trip. Best…

— Justin Gaethje 🇺🇸 (@Justin_Gaethje) February 27, 2025

Since their initial clash, both fighters have experienced ups and downs in their careers. Gaethje has maintained an active presence in the octagon, going 1-1 in his subsequent bouts. He secured a knockout victory over Dustin Poirier, further cementing his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the lightweight division. However, his momentum was halted by a knockout loss to Max Holloway at the landmark UFC 300 event in April 2024. Both of these high-profile fights were contested for the prestigious ‘BMF’ title, underlining Gaethje’s status as a fan favorite and perennial contender.

Fiziev, on the other hand, has faced a more challenging road since their first encounter. The Azerbaijani-Kyrgyzstani fighter has only stepped into the octagon once, facing Mateusz Gamrot in September 2023. Unfortunately for Fiziev, the bout ended in defeat when he suffered a torn ACL mid-fight. This significant injury required surgery and has kept him out of action until now. His acceptance of this rematch on short notice marks a determined comeback attempt and speaks volumes about his competitive spirit.

A Rematch with High Stakes

The timing of this rematch adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Gaethje will be looking to prove that his previous victory over Fiziev was no fluke, while also aiming to bounce back from his recent loss to Holloway. For Fiziev, this fight represents a golden opportunity to avenge his earlier defeat and make a statement in his return from injury.

The last time Rafael Fiziev fought Justin Gaethje… 🩸 pic.twitter.com/pNGVPPVlLr

— InsideFighting (@InsideFighting_) February 27, 2025

Both fighters are known for their striking prowess and aggressive styles, which should make for another electrifying contest. Gaethje’s legendary toughness and knockout power will be pitted against Fiziev’s technical striking and improved grappling. The outcome of this bout could have significant implications for the lightweight division’s rankings and future title contention.

UFC 313: A Stacked Card Gets Even Better

The addition of Gaethje vs. Fiziev II only enhances an already impressive UFC 313 lineup. The event is headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between champion Alex Pereira and challenger Magomed Ankalaev. This championship bout promises to be a clash of striking styles, with Pereira’s kickboxing pedigree facing off against Ankalaev’s well-rounded MMA game.

Other notable matchups on the card include:

• Iasmin Lucindo vs. Amanda Lemos
• Jalin Turner vs. Ignacio Bahamondes
• Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev
• Brunno Ferreira vs. Armen Petrosyan

The depth of talent on display at UFC 313 ensures that fight fans will be treated to a night of high-level mixed martial arts action across various weight classes.

UFC 313 stands as a testament to the organization’s ability to deliver compelling matchups even in the face of last-minute changes. With a championship bout at the top of the card and a series of intriguing fights throughout, including the newly minted Gaethje vs. Fiziev rematch, March 8 is shaping up to be a date that no MMA fan will want to miss.