Hooker’s UFC 313 Gaethje Bout Fell
This January 28, 2025 preview anticipated a Justin Gaethje–Dan Hooker co-main event at the March 8 card. The matchup never took place: Hooker withdrew with a hand injury, and Rafael Fiziev stepped in to face Gaethje. Gaethje won their rematch by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring it 29–28. The promotion announced Fiziev as Hooker’s replacement, and its official scorecards confirm Gaethje’s result.
Why Hooker withdrew
Hooker was originally booked to meet Gaethje in the co-main event on March 8, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. A hand injury forced him out less than two weeks before fight night. The withdrawal ended the planned matchup before the fighters could enter the cage; it was not a completed bout or a result for either man.
Fiziev stepped in
Fiziev accepted the short-notice opportunity and met Gaethje in a rematch of their 2023 fight. Gaethje earned a unanimous decision, 29–28 on each official card, after three rounds. The event’s co-main event therefore became Gaethje versus Fiziev, not Gaethje versus Hooker.
The original matchup still draws interest
Hooker and Gaethje were both known for high-paced, physical striking, which made the booking an appealing style clash when it was announced. Hooker’s withdrawal left the matchup unresolved, while Gaethje went on to face Fiziev.
Sources
Tags: MMA
