Magomed Ankalaev mocks Alex Pereira’s snow wrestling performance “Hope you can last for 25 minutes.”

Alex Pereira is just weeks away from his first title defense of 2025, looking to replicate his stellar 2024 campaign, where he was crowned Fighter of the Year. Throughout the past year, Pereira defended his title more than any other UFC champion, securing three victories and solidifying himself as one of the biggest stars in the promotion.

However, at UFC 313 on March 8, ‘Poatan’ will face his toughest test yet when he takes on Magomed Ankalaev in a highly anticipated light heavyweight showdown.

Ankalaev Dismisses Pereira’s Training, Sends Warning

Ahead of this massive fight, Pereira has faced some criticism regarding his preparation. Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier openly questioned Pereira’s decision to leave his training camp temporarily to travel to Australia for Sean Strickland’s middleweight title bout against Dricus Du Plessis.

In response to doubts about his commitment, Pereira shared a video of himself training takedown defense in the snow alongside his coach, former UFC light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira. The footage showcased Pereira working on his wrestling skills, a crucial area given Ankalaev’s grappling background.

However, Ankalaev was not impressed. The Russian fighter responded with a chilling warning: “Hope you can last for 25 minutes.” This statement indicates Ankalaev’s confidence in his ability to control the fight, emphasizing that a few minutes of wrestling in the snow won’t prepare Pereira for the relentless pace he plans to impose.

Can Pereira Overcome Ankalaev’s Grappling?

Many believe Ankalaev presents Pereira’s toughest challenge to date due to his wrestling and ability to apply pressure inside the octagon. While Pereira is known for his devastating striking and knockout power, questions remain about his ability to fend off a dominant grappler for an extended period.

Throughout his UFC tenure, Pereira has only been taken down nine times, with Jan Blachowicz being the only fighter to successfully control him for long durations. Despite Blachowicz’s success in securing takedowns, Pereira managed to weather the storm and secure a victory in their fight.

Ankalaev’s Wrestling vs. Blachowicz’s Wrestling

Statistically, Ankalaev is not as relentless in his wrestling as Blachowicz. The Russian has a lower takedown success rate, averaging fewer takedowns per 15 minutes than the Polish fighter. Specifically:

• Blachowicz’s takedown accuracy: 50%

• Ankalaev’s takedown accuracy: 31%

While Ankalaev is well-rounded and possesses solid grappling skills, he does not rely on wrestling as his primary game plan. Instead, he often mixes in wrestling with his striking, which could allow Pereira to capitalize on striking exchanges.

Pereira’s Path to Victory: Striking and Takedown Defense

Despite Ankalaev’s confidence, Pereira has consistently improved his takedown defense since transitioning from kickboxing to MMA. Training under Glover Teixeira, he has worked extensively on his wrestling, which was evident in his fights against Blachowicz and Jiri Prochazka.

Key Factors for Pereira

1. Distance Management: Pereira must use his elite kickboxing skills to maintain range and prevent Ankalaev from closing the distance for takedowns.

2. Takedown Defense: His ability to stuff takedown attempts and quickly get back to his feet will be critical.

3. Power Striking: If Pereira can force Ankalaev into a striking battle, he holds a significant advantage with his power and precision.

4. Cardio and Endurance: Pereira will need to manage his energy efficiently to ensure he remains effective throughout all five rounds.

5. Counter-Wrestling: Instead of simply defending, Pereira could look to counter Ankalaev’s wrestling with his own offensive techniques to break the Russian’s rhythm.

While Ankalaev may attempt to wear Pereira down with clinch work and wrestling, the Brazilian champion has proven that he can handle adversity. If Pereira can dictate the pace and keep the fight standing, his knockout power could end the fight at any moment.

Ankalaev’s Strategy: Pressure, Control, and Conditioning

For Ankalaev, the game plan is straightforward: apply relentless pressure and test Pereira’s gas tank over five rounds. While his wrestling stats may not be as high as Blachowicz’s, he remains a dangerous grappler with strong positional control.

Key Factors for Ankalaev

1. Tire Pereira Out: Constantly force clinch exchanges, make Pereira carry his weight, and drain his energy.

2. Grappling Superiority: Even if not securing takedowns at a high rate, controlling Pereira against the cage will score points with the judges.

3. Avoid Power Shots: Ankalaev must be mindful of Pereira’s explosive striking and avoid unnecessary risks in the stand-up exchanges.

4. Volume Striking: Mixing up his strikes with wrestling feints could keep Pereira guessing and prevent him from finding his rhythm.

5. Patience and Tactical Execution: Instead of rushing for early takedowns, Ankalaev should look for opportunities to capitalize on Pereira’s mistakes.

If Ankalaev can execute his game plan effectively, he could drag Pereira into deep waters and potentially secure a decision victory or a late-round stoppage.

What’s at Stake for Both Fighters?

For Pereira:

• A successful defense further cements him as one of the most dominant champions in UFC history.

• Silencing critics who question his grappling ability.

• Potential mega-fights against contenders like Jamahal Hill or a rematch with Jiri Prochazka.

• A chance to break records and establish himself as one of the greatest light heavyweights of all time.

For Ankalaev:

• The opportunity to become UFC light heavyweight champion.

• Redemption after his controversial draw against Jan Blachowicz.

• A major win over a superstar like Pereira would elevate his status significantly.

• A potential rematch against Blachowicz or a title defense against the division’s rising contenders.

Final Thoughts: Will Pereira Prove Ankalaev Wrong?

While Magomed Ankalaev has dismissed Pereira’s training methods, the Brazilian champion has repeatedly shown that he can rise to the occasion. His knockout power and growing defensive skills make him a dangerous opponent for anyone.

However, Ankalaev is confident that his wrestling will be the deciding factor. His message to Pereira—“Hope you can last 25 minutes”—is a direct warning that he plans to push the fight into deep waters.

Will Pereira’s striking be too much for Ankalaev, or will the Russian’s pressure and grappling neutralize the Brazilian’s offense? UFC 313 will provide all the answers on March 8.