UFC 313: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev 2: Live round-by-round updates

A lightweight clash between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev will serve as the co-main event for UFC 313 later tonight (March 8) at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In their first meeting at UFC 286, Gaethje (25-5) and Fiziev (12-3) delivered a closely contested three-round slug fest, with 'The Highlight' coming away with a majority decision win.

Many thought Fiziev deserved the judges' nod that night, and by the looks of it, 'Ataman' is itching for retribution. While UFC reportedly approached many of the 155 pound top echelonwhen Dan Hooker dropped out of the event, none was more eager to answer the call on short notice than Fiziev.

Gaethje is touted by many as the most violent fighter on the UFC roster. The former interim lightweight champion has been a part of numerous barn burners, including spectacular showings against Tony Ferguson, Michael Chandler, and Dustin Poirier, among others.

'The Highlight' was last seen in a brutal knockout loss against former featherweight champion Max Holloway and will be looking to get back in the winning column in stunning fashion.

Fiziev, on the other hand, is currently on a two-fight skid and has been inactive for the last year and a half. The Azerbaijan national, however, is one of the best kickboxers in the division and holds wins against the likes of Rafael dos Anjos, Renato Moicano, and King Green, among others.

Fiziev will head into the fight as a -162 favorite over Gaethje (+136 underdog). The main card of UFC 313 is now live. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the fight card.

Check out the final face-off between the pair below:

---

UFC 313: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev 2

Round 1

Fiziev opens with leg kicks. As Gaetje closes the distance, Fiziev takes down Gaethje. While 'The Highlight' explodes back to his feet, he is once again taken down and controlled.

Gaethje scrambles back to his feet. An uppercut, followed by a jab connects for the former BMF champion. Both fighters seem much more measured than in their first fight. Gaethje eats back-to-back elbows in the clinch.

A big right hand partially lands for Gaethje on the break. Moments later, a big right hand lands flush for 'The Highlight'. A swelling appears under 'Ataman's' eye. The commentators speculate that Fiziev's leg might be hurt from a kick.

Our score: 10-9 Fiziev, Fiziev 10-9 overall.

Round 2

Double hooks land for Gaethje. An accidental low blow from 'Ataman' puses the action. As the fight restarts, Fiziev connects with a right hand. A clean left hand lands for 'The Highlight'. He follows it up with a multi-punch combination.

Gaethje is pushing the pace, forcing 'Ataman' to fight on the retreat. 'The Highlight' is starting to find his range more easily. A back-to-back right hand lands for the former interim champion. Fiziev is getting pieced up.

A debilitating uppercut by Gaethje sends Fiziev crashing down to the canvas. 'The Highlight' tries to close the show with ground and pound, but Fiziev ties him up. As the fighters get back to their feet, Gaethje misses with a high kick. A good round for Gaethje

Our score: 10-8 Gaethje, Gaethje 19-18 overall.

Round 3

Gaethje unloads a ruthless barrage on his opponent right off the bat. 'Ataman' misses with a high kick. Fiziev lands a powerful left hook to the body. Powerful body kicks by 'Ataman' back up Gaethje.

Fiziev's body kicks seem to be causing real concern for Gaethje. Wow!!! A high kick off the Thai clinch lands for 'The Highlight'. An uppercut lands for Gaethje in the clinch.

Fiziev seems to be fading and has slowed down. 'The Highlight' attempts a level change, but Fiziev defends. A high kick by Gaethje backs up his opponent. He follows it up with an uppercut. A great round for 'The Highlight'.

Our score: 10-9 Gaethje, Gaethje 29-27 overall.

Official decision: Justin Gaethje def. Rafael Fiziev via unanimous decision. (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Check out Justin Gaethje's knockdown over Rafael Fiziev below: