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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Alex Pattle

Justin Gaethje to fight Rafael Fiziev after other UFC stars ‘said no’ in wake of Dan Hooker injury

Justin Gaethje will take on Rafael Fiziev in a lightweight rematch at UFC 313, as the latter replaces the injured Dan Hooker.

For many MMA fans, Gaethje vs Hooker was one of the most-anticipated fights of 2025, originally scheduled for five rounds in the UFC 313 co-main event on 8 March. However, Hooker hinted last week that the bout had been shortened to three rounds, and this week he was forced to withdraw, revealing a fractured hand.

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