UFC 313: Rafael Fiziev hopes Justin Gaethje goes for war – not just win

LAS VEGAS – Rafael Fiziev hopes he gets the most violently-minded Justin Gaethje locked in the cage with him Saturday at UFC 313.

Less than two weeks ago, Fiziev (12-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) wasn’t even a part of the card at T-Mobile Arena. Now three days out from it, he sits in the co-main event opposite Gaethje (25-5 MMA, 8-5 UFC) who holds a win over him.

After 18 months out of action as he recovered from a knee injury and subsequent surgery, and then waited for the UFC to book him, Fiziev replaced the injured Dan Hooker.

“All this time, I’ve been waiting for the fights, waiting for some callouts. I see nobody, so I made my decision. I had to look at my weight, check my weight every day, watch my weight, and stay in shape the maximum how I can. I believe maybe I’d go short notice because nobody fight.”

“… I’m just saying to my manager, ‘Hey, if you have some message from UFC, don’t ask me. I say yes to you for everybody, top-15, top-10, not ranked, debut guy, or somebody. Just don’t ask me. I’m ready for (them). I just want to go fight.”

Fiziev aims to avenge a March 2023 majority decision loss to Gaethje. The fight was close and earned Fight of the Night honors. Despite its excitement level, Gaethje displayed a more measured approach than what fans have grown to love him for. Fiziev hopes Gaethje is a bit more aggressive this time out.

“I like the Justin who goes forward, who makes his house in the octagon,” Fiziev said. “I waited for that (during) the first fight. I went to the war, but he went for the win. If he goes like that, he makes me more happy.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 313.