Alex Pereira prepares for the fight with Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313: “he’s no different from any other opponents”

The UFC light heavyweight division is set for a major showdown as Alex Pereira, the reigning champion, prepares to defend his title against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313, scheduled for March 8, 2025. This highly anticipated bout will headline the event, bringing two of the division’s most dangerous fighters face to face.

As fight night approaches, Pereira has made it clear that his training camp remains unchanged, despite Ankalaev’s unique skill set. In a recent interview, the Brazilian knockout artist stated:

“Honestly, I’m training as if I’m preparing for any other opponent. The only difference is that he’s a southpaw, but that doesn’t change much.”

With Pereira’s striking dominance and Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set, UFC 313 promises to be an electrifying contest that could reshape the division. But is Pereira’s confidence justified, or is Ankalaev the biggest challenge of his career?

Alex Pereira: The Most Dangerous Striker in the UFC?

Since transitioning from kickboxing to MMA, Alex “Poatan” Pereira has established himself as one of the most explosive knockout artists in UFC history.

Key Strengths of Pereira:

Elite Kickboxing—Multiple-time Glory Kickboxing champion with some of the best striking credentials in MMA.
Devastating Power: His left hook is legendary, knocking out top-tier opponents like Israel Adesanya and Jiri Prochazka.
Cold-blooded composure: He remains calm under pressure, methodically setting up his strikes.
Improved Takedown Defense: After sharpening his wrestling skills, he has shown he can hold his own against grapplers.

However, Pereira now faces Magomed Ankalaev, an opponent with a completely different fighting style.

Magomed Ankalaev: The Most Well-Rounded Threat?

While Pereira thrives on striking, Magomed Ankalaev brings a more complete skill set into the octagon.

Strengths of Ankalaev:

World-Class wrestling: a Dagestani fighter with elite sambo and takedown ability.
Striking Power: holds knockout wins over top contenders like Anthony Smith and Ion Cuțelaba.
Fight IQ: rarely makes mistakes and can adapt to any opponent’s game plan.
Durability: has never been finished in his UFC career.

With Ankalaev’s ability to mix striking with wrestling, he poses a unique challenge for Pereira, who has historically struggled against strong grapplers.

Pereira’s Mindset: “I Don’t Change My Training for Anyone”

Despite Ankalaev’s wrestling credentials, Pereira remains unfazed. His approach to preparation stays the same—relying on his striking, calculated pressure, and takedown defense to neutralize his opponent.

When asked about training adjustments, Pereira confidently stated:

“I think the only real difference is that he’s a southpaw, but that doesn’t change much.”

This no-nonsense approach shows Pereira’s belief in his ability to dictate the fight. Instead of adjusting to his opponent’s strengths, Pereira forces his opponents to adapt to him.

Has Pereira Improved His Ground Game?

One of the biggest concerns for Pereira in this fight is his ground game. Early in his UFC career, he showed vulnerabilities against wrestlers, particularly in his fight against Israel Adesanya at UFC 287, where he was taken down multiple times.

However, his recent performances suggest significant improvements:

• Against Jiri Prochazka, he defended takedowns and even showcased his own grappling skills.
• He has been training with elite wrestlers, including UFC veterans, to sharpen his defensive techniques.

If Pereira can keep the fight standing, Ankalaev may find himself in serious trouble.

Ankalaev’s Game Plan: Will He Wrestle Pereira?

Many believe that Ankalaev’s best path to victory is through wrestling. His ability to take opponents down and control them is well documented, and Pereira’s past struggles on the ground could make him an easy target.

However, Ankalaev is also a skilled striker, which means he might try to test Pereira on the feet before shooting for takedowns.

Will Ankalaev risk striking with Pereira?

If Ankalaev chooses to stand and trade punches, he may be walking into Pereira’s biggest strength. Pereira has an undeniable power advantage, and Ankalaev will need to close the distance quickly to avoid getting caught by Pereira’s devastating left hook.

The Key to Ankalaev’s Success

For Ankalaev to win, he needs to:

• Avoid trading punches with Pereira for too long.
• Use movement and feints to set up takedown entries.
• Wear Pereira down with wrestling pressure.
• Stay patient and not get drawn into a striking war.

If Ankalaev follows this strategy, he could hand Pereira his first loss at light heavyweight.

Fight Prediction: Who Has the Edge?

The outcome of this fight largely depends on where it takes place.

If the fight stays standing:
Advantage Pereira: His knockout power and precision are too dangerous.

If the fight goes to the ground:
Advantage Ankalaev: His control and grappling skills could neutralize Pereira.

Ultimately, the first round will be crucial. If Pereira can land big shots early and keep Ankalaev on the defensive, he may secure another highlight-reel knockout. However, if Ankalaev weathers the storm and implements a wrestling-heavy approach, he could dominate in the later rounds.

What’s at stake?

This isn’t just another title defense for Alex Pereira—it’s a fight that could determine his legacy at light heavyweight. A victory would solidify him as the true king of the division, while a loss would open the door for new contenders.

Meanwhile, for Magomed Ankalaev, this is his chance to finally claim UFC gold. After a controversial draw against Jan Błachowicz in his previous title fight, he is more motivated than ever to seize this opportunity.

Potential Outcomes:
Pereira KO/TKO (Round 1-2): If he finds Ankalaev’s chin early.
Ankalaev Decision/Via Submission (Round 4-5): If he drags Pereira into deep waters.

Final Thoughts: Pereira vs. Ankalaev Will Define UFC 313

With two of the best light heavyweights clashing, UFC 313 promises to be a historic night. Pereira’s power vs. Ankalaev’s wrestling—who will prevail?

One thing is certain: Alex Pereira is coming to fight, with no fear of the challenge ahead.

Will Poatan continue his reign of destruction, or will Ankalaev finally claim the title?

Don’t miss UFC 313 on March 8, 2025, live from T-Mobile Arena!