In the world of UFC, unexpected changes are common, and Justin Gaethje is currently facing one such challenge. With a record of 25-5 MMA and 8-5 UFC, Gaethje needs a new opponent after Dan Hooker had to withdraw from their highly anticipated five-round co-main event scheduled for March 8 at UFC 313 due to a fractured hand. This event, available on pay-per-view, ESPN, and ESPN+, has fans eagerly awaiting Gaethje's next move.
Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier reached out to Gaethje, the former UFC interim lightweight champion, to discuss his plans. Cormier shared his conversation with Gaethje on his YouTube channel, stating, “Justin Gaethje is still fighting.” Cormier recounted his question to Gaethje: “Do you have any plans to not fight this weekend?” Gaethje's response was emphatic, “Are you f*cking crazy? Of course I’m fighting.” This determination is characteristic of Gaethje, who is known for his resilience and fighting spirit.
Several fighters have expressed interest in stepping in as Gaethje's opponent. Among them are Rafael Fiziev, Renato Moicano, and Mateusz Gamrot. Each of these fighters brings unique skills and experiences to the octagon, making them viable candidates for the match-up.
If it were up to Daniel Cormier, he would prefer to see Gaethje face Renato Moicano. Moicano, with a record of 20-6-1 MMA and 12-6 UFC, is coming off a short-notice title loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 311. Cormier explains his reasoning, stating, “I think that that’s a fun fight. I think that that fight looks more to people like the fight against Dan Hooker, what we were all expecting.”
Cormier believes that Moicano is well-suited for this bout, despite his recent loss to Makhachev. He acknowledges that while Moicano couldn't compete with Makhachev, there is no shame in that. Cormier highlights Moicano's willingness to fight anyone and his versatile skills in the octagon, including his ability to stand and trade with the best fighters and his strong submission skills. “We know that ‘Money’ Moicano is always there to fight,” Cormier affirms.
As the UFC 313 event draws near, fans eagerly await the official announcement of Gaethje’s new opponent. With the possibility of a high-stakes match between Gaethje and Moicano, the excitement surrounding this event continues to build.
