Magomed Ankalaev: The New UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
At UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev achieved what many believed was inevitable—he became the undisputed UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Facing the dangerous Alex Pereira, Ankalaev delivered a dominant performance, outclassing his opponent with superior grappling, calculated striking, and relentless pressure. The victory further solidified Dagestan’s influence in the MMA world, while also continuing an unfortunate trend for Brazilian fighters struggling against elite Russian competition in title fights.
This historic fight showcased Ankalaev’s technical brilliance and marked a major shift in the UFC’s light heavyweight division. Let’s break down his journey to the top, the UFC 313 showdown, and what’s next for the new champion.
The Road to UFC Gold: Magomed Ankalaev’s Rise
Born on June 2, 1992, in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Magomed Ankalaev grew up in one of the most dominant combat sports regions in the world. Like many Dagestani fighters, he trained in wrestling and sambo, disciplines that have produced some of the most formidable UFC champions.
A Rough UFC Debut but an Unstoppable Comeback
Ankalaev made his UFC debut in 2018, suffering a shocking last-second submission loss to Paul Craig—a fight he had dominated until the final moments. However, instead of letting this setback define him, he bounced back with a vengeance, racking up an undefeated streak against top-tier opponents.
His elite striking, powerful wrestling, and strategic mindset quickly made him one of the most feared contenders in the division. He secured impressive wins over Thiago Santos, Anthony Smith, and Jan BÅ‚achowicz, showcasing his ability to control fights both on the feet and on the ground.
By the time UFC 313 arrived, Ankalaev was on the verge of greatness, determined to claim the belt that had long eluded him.
Alex Pereira: The Brazilian Powerhouse
Standing in Ankalaev’s way was none other than Alex “Poatan” Pereira, one of the most dangerous strikers in UFC history.
Pereira, a former two-division Glory kickboxing champion, had already shocked the world by defeating Israel Adesanya to win the middleweight title. His knockout power was legendary, and his move up to light heavyweight had been just as successful—he claimed the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship by defeating JiÅ™í Procházka.
Despite his striking pedigree, Pereira had shown vulnerabilities against wrestlers and grapplers, a weakness Ankalaev was more than prepared to exploit.
UFC 313: The Championship Fight Breakdown
The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, was packed with fans eager to witness this high-stakes title bout. The fight promised a classic clash of styles—Pereira’s devastating kickboxing against Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set.
Round 1: A Calculated Start
Pereira opened with his signature leg kicks, targeting Ankalaev’s base to slow his movement. However, Ankalaev remained composed, using head movement and controlled pressure to close the distance.
Both fighters had their moments, but Ankalaev’s calm demeanor and intelligent counters set the tone for the fight. He wasn’t reckless—he knew the power Pereira carried in both hands.
Round 2: Ankalaev Takes Control
As the second round began, Ankalaev switched gears, pressuring Pereira against the cage. His first takedown attempt was stuffed, but he quickly adjusted, dragging Pereira to the ground with a clinch trip.
Once on the mat, Ankalaev’s Dagestani wrestling took over. He maintained top control, landed ground-and-pound, and sapped Pereira’s energy. The round ended with Ankalaev smothering Pereira, leaving the Brazilian struggling to get back to his feet.
Rounds 3 & 4: Total Domination
By the third round, Pereira looked frustrated. His striking output decreased as Ankalaev constantly pressured him, mixing up takedown attempts and clinch work.
The fight had turned into a wrestling masterclass, with Ankalaev dictating the pace. Whenever Pereira managed to get back up, Ankalaev would drag him down again, showing elite control and suffocating top pressure.
At one point in the fourth round, Ankalaev landed brutal ground strikes, nearly forcing a stoppage. Pereira’s face was bloodied, and his frustration grew as he struggled to escape the relentless Dagestani grappling.
Round 5: A Desperate Final Push
With one round left, Pereira needed a knockout. He came out aggressive, throwing a dangerous head kick and a flurry of punches, but Ankalaev absorbed the shots and countered with a takedown.
The final minutes saw Ankalaev once again grind Pereira down, preventing any significant offense. As the fight ended, it was clear who the new champion was.
The Judges’ Decision: Ankalaev’s Crowning Moment
The official scorecards read 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47, all in favor of Magomed Ankalaev. He had completely neutralized Pereira’s strengths, proving that wrestling and pressure can nullify even the most feared strikers.
With his hand raised in victory, Ankalaev had finally claimed UFC gold.
Post-Fight Reactions: What’s Next?
Magomed Ankalaev: The New King Speaks
In his post-fight interview, Ankalaev addressed his critics and sent a message to the division:
“I told you I was the best. I waited for this moment, and now I am the champion. If anyone wants this belt, come and take it.”
His dominance in the fight left no doubt that he is the most complete light heavyweight in the world.
Alex Pereira’s Response: Will He Return?
Despite the loss, Pereira remained respectful, acknowledging Ankalaev’s superior grappling.
“I will come back stronger. He had a great strategy, but I will adjust. This is not the end.”
Many fans wondered whether Pereira might return to middleweight or if he would push for a rematch.
Who’s Next for Ankalaev?
With the title secured, the big question is: who will challenge Ankalaev next?
- JiÅ™í Procházka: A former champion and one of the most exciting fighters in the division.
- Jamahal Hill: The former titleholder is looking to reclaim his spot.
- Jan BÅ‚achowicz (Rematch): Ankalaev fought him to a draw before—could a rematch settle unfinished business?
Regardless of the opponent, Ankalaev has made it clear that he’s here to dominate.
Final Thoughts: A New Era Begins
Magomed Ankalaev’s victory at UFC 313 signals the start of a new era in the light heavyweight division. His ability to shut down elite strikers, control fights with superior grappling, and execute a disciplined game plan makes him one of the most dangerous champions in the UFC today.
For Alex Pereira, this loss is a setback, but his warrior spirit means he’ll likely be back—whether at 205 pounds or back at middleweight.
One thing is certain: Magomed Ankalaev is the undisputed king of the light heavyweight division—and it’s going to take something special to dethrone him.
