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Justin Gaethje is gearing up to face a familiar foe in the newly announced UFC 313 co-main event. On March 8, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Gaethje will step into the octagon once again with Rafael Fiziev, reigniting their explosive rivalry.
This unexpected rematch was confirmed on Wednesday after Dan Hooker withdrew due to a broken hand sustained during training. Gaethje and Fiziev first clashed at UFC 286 in London, where Gaethje emerged victorious via majority decision in what was deemed the Fight of the Night. Now, Fiziev has the perfect opportunity to settle the score.
For Fiziev, this fight marks his return to the cage after suffering a torn ACL in his bout against Mateusz Gamrot in September 2023. That injury handed Fiziev his second consecutive loss, following his previous defeat to Gaethje, which ended his impressive six-fight winning streak. Nearly 18 months later, Fiziev is determined to make a strong comeback and reclaim his position among the lightweight elite.
The Gaethje vs. Fiziev showdown adds even more excitement to an already stacked UFC 313 event, headlined by Alex Pereira defending his light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev. With Gaethje known for his relentless pressure and Fiziev eager for redemption, this rematch promises fireworks.
As Gaethje once said, I’m going to fight my fight, and if I impose my will, I’m walking away with my hand raised. Will history repeat itself, or will Fiziev rewrite the script? Fight fans won’t want to miss this epic rematch!