Rafael Fiziev Steps in to Face Justin Gaethje at UFC 313 Co-Main Event

Rafael Fiziev has been tapped to step in for the injured Dan Hooker, making a huge impact in the upcoming UFC 313 co-main event against Justin Gaethje. Originally, Hooker was set to face Gaethje in a five-round battle, but with the change, the two fighters will now meet in a three-round bout. This fight is set to take place on March 8, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, as part of a star-studded UFC 313 card, which will be headlined by the light heavyweight title clash between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev.

Fiziev (31) was originally slated for a fight against Dan Hooker before a knee injury saw him sidelined in 2023. Despite the setback, Fiziev remains a top contender in the lightweight division. His first bout with Gaethje at UFC 286 in March 2023 ended in a hard-fought majority decision loss. But Fiziev’s aggressive fighting style and impressive early UFC run, including six victories out of seven initial appearances, keep him in the mix as a key figure in the lightweight title picture.

On the other hand, Gaethje, a two-time UFC lightweight title challenger, is coming off a fifth-round knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300 in a BMF title bout. Gaethje's resume includes victories over several top contenders such as Dustin Poirier, Michael Chandler, Tony Ferguson, and others, proving his place as one of the most dangerous fighters in the lightweight division.

The fight between Fiziev and Gaethje is sure to bring fireworks, as both fighters are known for their high-paced, striking-heavy styles. With both men looking to make a statement, UFC 313 promises a thrilling evening of action that fans won't want to miss.