UFC 313 was one of the most anticipated events of the year, featuring a high-stakes main event between Alex “Poatan” Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. With both fighters possessing distinct skill sets—Pereira’s world-class striking versus Ankalaev’s well-rounded MMA approach—fans expected an intense battle.

A significant element of Pereira’s strategy revolved around low kicks, a technique he has perfected throughout his career. However, despite his relentless use of them, he was unable to secure a victory. Ankalaev adapted brilliantly, neutralizing Pereira’s offense and securing a unanimous decision win.

This breakdown explores Pereira’s game plan, Ankalaev’s adjustments, key fight moments, and the implications of the bout for both fighters.

Alex Pereira’s Tactical Use of Low Kicks

Why Are Low Kicks So Effective?

Low kicks are a fundamental striking weapon in MMA, particularly for fighters with a kickboxing background like Pereira. When executed correctly, they can:

Weaken an opponent’s base—limiting movement and disrupting footwork. Reduce explosiveness: making takedowns and striking less effective. Set up power shots: forcing opponents to drop their guard and exposing openings.

Given Ankalaev’s wrestling ability, Pereira likely planned to target his opponent’s legs early and often to reduce mobility and takedown effectiveness.

Pereira’s Low Kick Execution in the Fight

From Round 1, Pereira immediately went to work on Ankalaev’s lead leg, throwing powerful calf kicks with precision. Some of the key moments included:

Early rounds: Pereira landed multiple clean low kicks, visibly affecting Ankalaev’s movement. Middle rounds: Ankalaev began checking the kicks, reducing their impact. Later rounds: Pereira’s output slowed as Ankalaev took control of the fight.

Despite the promising start, Ankalaev’s adjustments proved to be the difference-maker.

Magomed Ankalaev’s Tactical Adaptation

How Ankalaev Neutralized Pereira’s Kicks

Ankalaev, known for his strategic intelligence, quickly adapted to Pereira’s approach by:

Checking the kicks—raising his shin at the right moment to absorb the impact. Countering with punches: throwing quick combinations after blocked kicks. Pressuring forward—closing the distance to minimize Pereira’s kicking range.

These adjustments prevented Pereira from dictating the pace and allowed Ankalaev to implement his own game plan effectively.

Ankalaev’s Offense and Grappling Dominance

While Pereira’s low kicks were a key weapon, Ankalaev countered with a well-rounded attack that included:

Clinch work and control—leaning on Pereira to drain his energy. Smart wrestling transitions: using feints to set up takedowns. Striking versatility—targeting Pereira’s head and body with precise punches.

This multi-dimensional approach was a major reason why Ankalaev secured a clear decision victory.

Key Moments in the Fight

Round-by-Round Breakdown

Round 1: A Strong Start for Pereira

Pereira opens aggressively, landing multiple heavy low kicks. Ankalaev absorbs the damage but remains composed.

Round 2: Ankalaev’s Adjustments Begin

Ankalaev checks more kicks and starts countering with punches. Pereira continues his attack but struggles to maintain distance.

Round 3: Momentum Shifts

Ankalaev lands his first takedown, forcing Pereira to defend from the bottom. Pereira’s kick-heavy strategy becomes less effective as Ankalaev applies pressure.

Round 4: Ankalaev Takes Over

Ankalaev’s striking volume increases, mixing punches with occasional kicks. Pereira’s movement slows, likely due to cardio issues and accumulated damage.

Round 5: A Championship Performance

Ankalaev maintains control, dictating the pace and avoiding Pereira’s last-minute knockout attempts. The fight goes the distance, and Ankalaev secures a unanimous decision victory.

What This Means for Alex Pereira

Strengths Displayed

Devastating low kicks—a continued strength, but need to be set up better. Dangerous striking: Even in defeat, he remained a knockout threat.

Areas to Improve

Takedown defense: wrestling continues to be a challenge for him. Cardio and endurance—faded as the fight progressed, allowing Ankalaev to take control.

If Pereira wants to regain championship status, he will need to work on grappling defense and endurance training.

Magomed Ankalaev’s Future as Champion

Why Ankalaev Is a Dangerous Champion

Smart fight IQ: He adapts quickly and effectively. Well-rounded skill set: strong in striking, grappling, and defense. Elite cardio: maintains a high pace throughout five rounds.

With his dominant win over Pereira, Ankalaev has proven he belongs at the top of the division.

Potential Next Opponents

Jiri Procházka: A fan favorite striking battle. Jamahal Hill: A rematch opportunity. Jan Błachowicz: Another top contender in the mix.

As the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Ankalaev has plenty of exciting challenges ahead.

Conclusion

UFC 313 delivered a compelling main event between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev. Pereira’s strategy of targeting Ankalaev’s legs with low kicks was a smart tactical move, but Ankalaev’s ability to adapt and execute a complete MMA game plan secured him the victory.

This fight highlights the importance of adaptability in elite-level MMA—striking alone isn’t always enough. Moving forward, Pereira will need to evolve his game, while Ankalaev looks poised to defend his title against new challengers.

One thing is certain: the UFC Light Heavyweight division remains one of the most exciting in the sport, and the road to gold is only getting tougher.