Gaethje Aims for Title Shot at UFC 313 with Fiziev Rematch

LAS VEGAS, March 1, 2025 — Justin Gaethje is poised to reclaim his place as a frontrunner for the UFC lightweight championship when he faces Rafael Fiziev on March 8 at UFC 313. The event will take place at the T-Mobile Arena, marking a highly anticipated rematch after Gaethje edged Fiziev by majority decision at UFC 286.

Gaethje (25-5 MMA, 8-5 UFC) is coming off a heartbreaking knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300. Now, as he trains for this pivotal bout, he aims to secure an impressive victory that could lead to an opportunity to challenge current champion Islam Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC). “I’m always shooting for Makhachev. Right now, he’s the champion,” Gaethje said during an appearance on “The Jim Rome Show.”

The stakes are high for both fighters, especially for Gaethje, who emphasized the importance of timing in the sport. Following his loss to Holloway, Gaethje recalled how Dustin Poirier bounced back from losing to him to earn a title shot shortly thereafter. “With Charles Oliveira already losing to him twice and being ahead of me, and Tsarukyan pulling out the day of the fight, there’s really not a lot of guys,” stated Gaethje, highlighting the shifting dynamics of the lightweight division.

The upcoming match against Fiziev is a crucial one for Gaethje. “With a huge win here and a finish, I think they’re going to have to consider me,” he said, acknowledging the urgency of his current situation. Gaethje’s previous encounter with Fiziev showcased his strategic capabilities, as he won the match through a calculated approach rather than sheer force.

As the backdrop to UFC 313 unfolds, Makhachev’s title reign has been marked by complications. Initially scheduled to fight Tsarukyan at UFC 311, Makhachev faced Renato Moicano instead when Tsarukyan withdrew due to injury. UFC CEO Dana White has indicated that Tsarukyan won’t be rebooked immediately for a title opportunity, further clearing the path for potential contenders such as Gaethje.

In his preparation for the fight, Gaethje is focused and determined, aiming to recover from the physical and emotional toll of his last bout. “I’ve never fought him, and that’s what we’re looking for,” he reinforced, indicating his ambition to challenge Makhachev should he emerge victorious against Fiziev.

Fiziev, with a record of 12-3, presents a formidable challenge due to his proven knockout power and technical skill. Gaethje will need to dig deep and display his tactical acumen to secure the win and his title aspirations. Meanwhile, fan anticipation continues to build as the fight draws near.

As UFC 313 approaches, the excitement is palpable. Will Justin Gaethje assert himself as the undeniable number one contender, or will Rafael Fiziev pull off the upset? The answers are almost here as both fighters prepare to step into the octagon for what promises to be an electrifying night of mixed martial arts.