With UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) looking for fresh blood, Gaethje thinks he can jump into the title opportunity with an impressive showing against Fiziev. Gaethje edged out Fiziev by majority decision at UFC 286.

Rafael Fiziev will replace Dan Hooker on short notice to face Justin Gaethje in the co-main event of UFC 313 on March 8. UFC CEO Dana White announced the fight Wednesday on Instagram Live. Hooker was originally set to face Gaethje (25-5) in a five-round co-main event at UFC 313 in Las Vegas but was forced to withdraw with a hand injury less than two weeks before the fight.

If Justin Gaethje emerges victorious against Rafael Fiziev a second time, he believes he could be due for another lightweight title shot.