Alex Pereira Vs. Magomed Ankalaev: A Long Awaited Title Fight Between Two Of The Best UFC Light Heavyweights

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The UFC is set to deliver another monumental showdown with UFC 313, scheduled for Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10 PM ET at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event will be headlined by one of the most anticipated light heavyweight title fights in recent history: defending champion Alex “Poatan” Pereira vs. the fierce challenger Magomed Ankalaev.

With Pereira’s devastating knockout power and Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set, this bout promises to be a thrilling clash of styles. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether Pereira’s striking dominance will continue or if Ankalaev’s wrestling and counter-striking will lead to a new champion.

Event Overview: UFC 313 Details

Main Event: A Legacy-Defining Showdown

Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Time: Main Card starts at 10:00 PM ET
Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
Main Event: Alex Pereira (Champion) vs. Magomed Ankalaev (Challenger)
Broadcast: ESPN+ PPV

Alex Pereira – The Devastating Champion

Alex Pereira, also known as “Poatan,” is one of the most feared strikers in the UFC. The former two-division Glory Kickboxing champion made his transition to MMA in 2015 and has quickly climbed the ranks to become a two-division UFC champion.

With a record of 9-1 in MMA and an undefeated streak at light heavyweight, Pereira has proven that his kickboxing skills translate exceptionally well to the Octagon. He boasts multiple high-profile wins, including victories over Israel Adesanya, Jan Błachowicz, and Jiří Procházka.

Pereira’s Key Strengths:

Elite Striking: His kickboxing background gives him some of the most precise and powerful striking in the sport.
One-Punch Knockout Power: Pereira has finished elite opponents with single blows, making him one of the division’s deadliest fighters.
Composure Under Pressure: Even when facing adversity, Pereira maintains a calm and calculated approach inside the Octagon.
Champion’s Mentality: He has already held titles in two UFC weight classes, proving his ability to adapt and overcome elite competition.

However, his grappling and takedown defense remain areas of concern, and Ankalaev, a highly skilled wrestler, may look to exploit these weaknesses.

Magomed Ankalaev – The Tactical Challenger

Magomed Ankalaev, the Russian powerhouse, enters this fight with a reputation for being one of the most complete fighters in the light heavyweight division. With a record of 18-1-1, he has proven his ability to fight at the highest level.

His first title shot against Jan Błachowicz in 2022 ended in a controversial draw, but since then, Ankalaev has continued to improve, dominating every opponent he has faced.

Ankalaev’s Key Strengths:

Wrestling Dominance: His Dagestani wrestling is among the best in the division, giving him a major advantage over Pereira.
Strategic Counter-Striking: Ankalaev does not rush forward recklessly—he waits for the perfect opening to land devastating shots.
Cardio and Endurance: He has shown the ability to go five rounds without slowing down, which could be crucial against Pereira.
Strong Ground Game: If he takes Pereira down, he could keep him there for long periods, neutralizing his striking.

While Ankalaev possesses the skill set to dethrone Pereira, he must be cautious when engaging in striking exchanges, as one mistake could cost him the fight.

Fight Strategy and Prediction

This fight is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup, but both men have the ability to mix things up.

For Pereira: The champion needs to keep the fight standing and maintain distance. His best chance to win is by landing clean shots early and forcing Ankalaev into a striking battle.
For Ankalaev: The challenger must close the distance, use clinch work, and execute takedowns to wear down Pereira and neutralize his knockout power.

Prediction:

If the fight stays on the feet, Pereira has the edge due to his striking power. However, if Ankalaev can execute his wrestling game plan, he has a great chance of controlling the fight and winning via decision or submission.

Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev – A Striking War

The co-main event features an explosive lightweight bout between two of the most dangerous strikers in the division: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev.

Justin Gaethje – The former interim lightweight champion is known for his aggressive fighting style, powerful leg kicks, and knockout power.
Rafael Fiziev – A Muay Thai specialist with sharp striking and incredible speed.

Expect fireworks in this fight, as both men prefer stand-up battles with high-volume striking.

Full Fight Card for UFC 313

Main Card (10:00 PM ET, ESPN+ PPV):

Light Heavyweight Title Fight: Alex Pereira (Champion) vs. Magomed Ankalaev (Challenger)
Lightweight Bout: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev
Lightweight Bout: Jalin Turner vs. Ignacio Bahamondes
Women’s Strawweight Bout: Amanda Lemos vs. Iasmin Lucindo
Lightweight Bout: King Green vs. Mauricio Ruffy

Preliminary Card (8:00 PM ET, ESPN & ESPN+):

Heavyweight Bout: Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev
Flyweight Bout: Bruno Silva vs. Joshua Van
Middleweight Bout: Brunno Ferreira vs. Armen Petrosyan
Welterweight Bout: Alex Morono vs. Carlos Leal

Early Prelims (6:30 PM ET, UFC Fight Pass):

Featherweight Bout: Mairon Santos vs. Francis Marshall
Middleweight Bout: Djorden Santos vs. Ozzy Diaz
Bantamweight Bout: Chris Gutierrez vs. Jean Matsumoto

What’s at Stake?

For Pereira:

If Pereira successfully defends his title, he will further solidify his legacy as a dominant two-division champion. He could then target a move to heavyweight or defend against other top contenders like Jamahal Hill or Jiří Procházka.

For Ankalaev:

A victory would make Ankalaev the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and usher in a new era for the division. He has been waiting for this moment since his draw against Jan Błachowicz in 2022, and a win here would be career-defining.

Final Thoughts: UFC 313 Could Be Legendary

UFC 313 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of the year. With a high-stakes title fight, a fan-favorite lightweight war, and a stacked card full of thrilling matchups, this event is a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.

Will Alex Pereira retain his belt and continue his dominance, or will Magomed Ankalaev finally claim UFC gold? The answer awaits at UFC 313.