The Pereira vs. Ankalaev fight at UFC is at risk of being canceled due to an off-the-books betting agreement.

The world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is in shock as the UFC and the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) have launched an investigation into a controversial side bet between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev. With their highly anticipated fight set to take place this Saturday, this revelation could have major implications for the bout and Pereira’s career.

This development has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the fight, potential violations of gambling regulations, and whether Pereira could face disqualification. Here’s everything we know so far about this unfolding situation.

The Alleged Side Bet: What Happened?

According to multiple sources, Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev allegedly agreed to a private wager regarding the outcome of their fight. Details surrounding the bet remain unclear, but rumors suggest it was a substantial sum, and some reports indicate that the fighters may have even discussed terms publicly.

In combat sports, gambling-related controversies are taken extremely seriously, especially when it involves active fighters wagering on their own fights. This raises ethical and legal questions, leading to the UFC and the NSAC stepping in to investigate whether any violations have occurred.

Why This Investigation Matters

The MMA community has long been wary of potential conflicts of interest involving gambling. Fighters placing bets on fights, particularly their own, can pose serious integrity issues, leading to concerns such as:

1. Fight Fixing Allegations – A fighter with a financial incentive could manipulate their performance, raising doubts about the legitimacy of the competition.

2. Violation of UFC Contracts – The UFC has strict rules against fighters engaging in gambling activities related to their fights.

3. NSAC Regulations – Nevada’s commission heavily monitors sports betting, and violations could result in severe penalties, including suspensions or fines.

This situation highlights the importance of transparency and ethics in combat sports, as any breach could have significant repercussions for the fighters involved and the sport’s credibility as a whole.

Could Alex Pereira Be Disqualified?

The biggest question now is whether Alex Pereira could be disqualified from the fight due to the ongoing investigation. While no official statement has been made regarding potential disqualification, the consequences of violating UFC and NSAC rules could be severe. Possible outcomes include:

• Immediate Disqualification from UFC 313 – If the commission finds strong evidence of rule-breaking, Pereira could be pulled from the fight.

• Fines and Suspensions – If proven guilty, Pereira could face fines, suspensions, or other disciplinary actions.

• Fight Cancellation or Replacement – If Pereira is deemed ineligible, the UFC may have to find a replacement opponent for Ankalaev.

While disqualification would be a worst-case scenario, it remains a possibility depending on how the investigation unfolds. The UFC has a history of enforcing strict disciplinary measures when it comes to betting scandals, which makes this case all the more serious.

What the UFC and NSAC Have Said So Far

While the investigation is still ongoing, UFC President Dana White has reportedly been briefed on the situation. The UFC has historically taken a firm stance on gambling-related issues, and White previously warned fighters about the risks of getting involved in betting scandals.

Meanwhile, the Nevada State Athletic Commission has remained tight-lipped but confirmed that they are reviewing all available evidence. If they determine that Pereira and Ankalaev engaged in prohibited gambling activities, both fighters could face consequences beyond this fight.

There is also speculation that the NSAC could impose stricter rules on fighter conduct regarding gambling to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.

Pereira and Ankalaev’s Reactions

Both Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev have yet to issue official statements, but sources close to their camps suggest they are focused on the upcoming fight. However, this controversy threatens to overshadow what was expected to be an explosive clash between two elite light heavyweights.

Pereira, known for his knockout power and precision striking, has been training rigorously for this bout, and the investigation adds an unwelcome distraction. Similarly, Ankalaev, a highly skilled and durable fighter, is preparing for what could be the most significant fight of his career.

The Bigger Picture: UFC’s Battle Against Betting Scandals

This incident is not the first time the UFC has faced controversy regarding betting. In recent years, concerns over fight integrity have grown, leading to strict measures against fighters and coaches involved in gambling-related activities.

For example, in 2023, former UFC fighter James Krause was embroiled in a major gambling scandal that led to lifetime bans and regulatory crackdowns. The UFC has since ramped up its efforts to prevent similar incidents, making this investigation into Alex Pereira even more significant.

Additionally, the UFC has partnerships with major betting companies, and any controversy related to fighter involvement in gambling could damage these business relationships. As such, the promotion is likely to take swift and decisive action to protect its brand integrity.

How This Could Affect Future UFC Betting Policies

If this investigation confirms any wrongdoing, the UFC and NSAC may implement stricter policies regarding fighter conduct and gambling. Possible measures include:

• Stronger Contracts and Regulations: Fighters could be required to sign agreements explicitly prohibiting all forms of betting related to UFC events.

• Increased Oversight and Monitoring: More thorough investigations into fighter financial activities and betting patterns.

• Harsher Penalties: Severe consequences for any fighter found violating gambling-related policies to deter future misconduct.

The UFC has already taken steps to separate fighters from betting conflicts, but this case could push the organization to introduce even more stringent rules.

What’s Next?

With the fight just days away, time is running out for the UFC and the NSAC to reach a decision. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching consequences, not just for Pereira and Ankalaev but for how the UFC handles gambling-related matters in the future.

If Pereira is cleared, the fight will proceed as scheduled. However, if any wrongdoing is found, it could alter the trajectory of his career and shake up the UFC light heavyweight division. Fans are eagerly awaiting official announcements to see if their highly anticipated bout will go on as planned.

Conclusion

As the investigation unfolds, MMA fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting an official decision. The UFC and the Nevada State Athletic Commission have a responsibility to uphold the integrity of the sport, and how they handle this case will set a precedent for future betting-related controversies.

Whether Alex Pereira will fight this Saturday or face severe consequences remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—the UFC is taking gambling violations more seriously than ever. Stay tuned as more details emerge in this developing story.

As the world of MMA watches closely, one thing is for sure: the results of this investigation could have lasting implications for fighter conduct, UFC betting policies, and the sport’s overall credibility.