In a highly anticipated showdown at UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev successfully dethroned Alex Pereira, claiming the light heavyweight title via unanimous decision. The judges’ scorecards read 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47 in favor of Ankalaev, marking a significant shift in the division’s landscape. This victory not only crowns Ankalaev as the new champion but also sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in the light heavyweight division.
AND NEW
Magomed Ankalaev defeats Alex Pereira and is the new UFC light heavyweight champion
#UFC313 pic.twitter.com/kwqcmkPZmm
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) March 9, 2025
The fight itself was a closely contested affair, with both fighters showcasing their unique skill sets. Pereira, known for his formidable striking, looked to use his boxing background to keep Ankalaev at bay. However, Ankalaev’s well-rounded game, which includes superior grappling skills and relentless pressure, ultimately proved too much for the Brazilian.
A Tactical Masterclass
Ankalaev’s strategy was evident from the start: use his wrestling to neutralize Pereira’s striking advantage and control the pace of the fight. He successfully implemented this plan, taking Pereira down multiple times and dominating the grappling exchanges. While Pereira managed to land several good shots on the feet, Ankalaev’s ability to dictate where the fight took place was crucial in securing the victory.
Huge second round for Magomed Ankalaev, that left hand is landing over and over
19-19 #ufc313 pic.twitter.com/9IcWXDH4wF— Kevin Thang (@Skip2MyJays) March 9, 2025
The Russian’s performance was a testament to his growth as a fighter. After coming close to winning the title in his previous attempt, Ankalaev refined his skills and returned stronger than ever. His conditioning allowed him to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the fight, never once backing off from the challenge.
Pereira, despite losing his title, showed why he remains one of the most formidable strikers in the division. His ability to hang with Ankalaev on the feet and land impactful shots kept the fight competitive until the end. However, his inability to defend against Ankalaev’s takedowns ultimately cost him the fight.
What’s Next for Both Fighters?
Magomed Ankalaev’s victory sets him up as the new face of the light heavyweight division. As the champion, he will be tasked with defending his title against a host of hungry contenders. A potential first title defense could come as early as the winner of a bout between Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree.
For Alex Pereira, this loss serves as a setback, but it does not diminish his standing as one of the most exciting fighters in the division. Pereira’s striking prowess and aggressive style will always make him a compelling opponent, and he remains a strong contender for future title opportunities. An immediate rematch against Ankalaev could be on the horizon if that’s the way Pereira wants to go or Pereira could finally move the up to the heavyweight division.
As for what’s next in the light heavyweight division, the landscape has become even more intriguing. With Ankalaev at the helm, fans can expect a series of exciting title defenses and contenders’ bouts. The division is filled with talented fighters, each looking to make their mark and challenge for the title. Ankalaev’s reign promises to be an exciting one, with plenty of challenges ahead.
Magomed Ankalaev’s unanimous decision victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 313 marked a new era in the light heavyweight division. This win not only showcases Ankalaev’s skill and determination but also highlights the depth and competitiveness of the division. As Ankalaev begins his title reign and Pereira looks to regroup, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and storylines to emerge in the coming months.
The light heavyweight division is one of the most storied in the UFC, with a history of legendary champions and epic battles. Ankalaev’s entry into this lineage adds another chapter to the division’s rich history, and his reign will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike. With his well-rounded skills and aggressive style, Ankalaev is well-equipped to defend his title against all comers.
Magomed Ankalaev’s journey to the top has been marked by perseverance and dedication. Despite facing setbacks, he never wavered in his commitment to his craft. This victory serves as a testament to his hard work and will undoubtedly inspire others who are facing similar challenges in their own careers.
Alex Pereira’s decision to continue fighting will be welcomed by fans, as his exciting style and formidable striking make him a must-watch every time he steps into the Octagon. His legacy as a former champion will endure, and his future bouts will be highly anticipated as he seeks to reclaim his title or face other top contenders. The future looks bright for both fighters, and their performances at UFC 313 will be remembered as pivotal moments in their careers.
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