Justin Gaethje is set to face Rafael Fiziev in a rematch at UFC 313 after Dan Hooker withdrew, sparking mixed reactions from fans, while other notable matchups include Jean Silva vs. Bryce Mitchell at UFC 314 and Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. headlining UFC Kansas City.
Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev are set to clash in the new co-main event of UFC 313. But, was this the right call? Should another lightweight contender have been given the nod instead?
After Dan Hooker pulled out from his fight with Gaethje, Fiziev stepped up. It’s a rematch of their UFC 286 bout, which Gaethje won via majority decision. That fight snagged Fight of the Night honors, and on paper, it’s a stylistic dream. Yet, fans are torn—was this rerun necessary?
In other news, featherweight knockout artist Jean Silva will face Bryce Mitchell at UFC 314. Meanwhile, Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree Jr. are set to settle scores in UFC Kansas City’s main event.
Curious about what fans think of Gaethje vs. Fiziev 2 and other matchups? Check out their reactions below.
Cape MO Guy says, “Oh, goody! ANOTHER rematch no fans asked for.” He feels the card’s getting top-heavy.
SexyFatGuy shares a different view: “Glad to see this.” He thought Gaethje wouldn’t take short-notice fights but is happy to be proven wrong.
TheSesameStreetCount thinks it’s a tough return for both fighters but especially for Fiziev.
Flamesting believes it’s an upgrade: “Better fight than the original.”
Scot_McCreight_ considers it a tougher matchup for Gaethje. Despite this, he still backs “The Highlight” to win.
iamthekeyboardwarrior sees it as the best scenario under the circumstances. Hooker would’ve been interesting, but Fiziev is more dangerous.
Barnabus Dupree comments on Fiziev’s uphill battle: coming off an ACL tear, 18 months out, and on two weeks’ notice? A tall order indeed.
Nicolas Caged poses a fun question: How much would you need to be paid to fight Gaethje on short notice?
Switching gears to Silva vs. Mitchell, stippenstoh warns not to underestimate Silva’s flat-footed stance. He’s got knockout power and could flatten Bryce in the first round.
Greatknightofights7 is super excited for Silva vs. Mitchell, calling it the second-best option after cutting Bryce altogether.
Nicolas Caged thinks Silva’s star will rise significantly after taking out “Nutzi” Mitchell.
As for Hill vs. Rountree Jr., Barnabus Dupree humorously asks who’s getting knocked out cold (KTFO).
EAST_TIIIME!!! finds it easy to root for Khalil Rountree Jr., while iLikeTrolling can’t wait to see Hill get knocked out again.
iamthekeyboardwarrior wonders if Jamahal Hall will go for another nap or try wrestling his way to victory. Either way, he thinks the UFC got this one right.
And that’s the latest buzz from the MMA world!