Pereira vs. Ankalaev: A Clash of Titans at UFC 313

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — In a highly anticipated showdown, Alex Pereira will defend his light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 on March 8, 2025. The match features two of the most formidable athletes in the division, bringing striking power and grappling prowess to the Octagon.

Alex Pereira, the reigning champion, enters with an impressive 12-2 professional record, recently defeating Khalil Rountree Jr. in what marked his third successful title defense. Known for his knockout power, Pereira isn’t just a grappler; he embodies a fighting spirit that has made him an intimidating presence.

“He’s going to walk you down and kill you. To the core, that is who he is,” said Eliot Marshall, a UFC veteran and current coach at Easton Training Center. Pereira’s ability to maintain pressure is a key component of his fighting style.

On the other hand, challenger Magomed Ankalaev boasts a record of 19-1-1. Adept in wrestling and grappling, Ankalaev has demonstrated significant endurance and skill by remaining unbeaten in his last 13 bouts. Marshall highlights Ankalaev as a well-rounded fighter, stating, “He’s very well-rounded; that’s his best trait.”

The bout poses a compelling contrast between Pereira’s aggressive striking and Ankalaev’s strategic grappling approach. With Ankalaev’s wrestling skills, the expectation is that he will aim to ground Pereira early to neutralize his striking advantage.

“Get Pereira on his back, and then figure out a way to kill. I don’t know that fatigue will bother Pereira,” Marshall noted regarding Ankalaev’s strategy.

While Pereira’s power is unrivaled, critics question his grappling effectiveness, a dimension highlighted during his past bout against Israel Adesanya. Critics argue that Ankalaev may exploit his grappling techniques more effectively than others.

As both fighters prepare for the main event, questions loom surrounding Pereira’s focus, particularly with discussions of his off-camp activities. “Is he believing his own hype a little bit too much?” Marshall pondered, hinting that complacency could be an X-factor in the fight.

Adding a philanthropic twist, Pereira proposed that the loser of the fight should donate $200,000 to children’s cancer charities, reflecting camaraderie amidst fierce competition. “It’s a touch of wholesome ahead of what promises to be a savage fight,” reflected commentators following the callout.

The stakes are high for Pereira, who seeks his fourth consecutive successful title defense and to solidify his status as light heavyweight champion. The matchup has drawn significant public interest, and the T-Mobile Arena is expected to be packed with fight fans ready for an evening of thrilling action.

“Pereira walks into the Octagon like a force of nature. Who can stop ‘Poatan’? This fight promises to deliver high drama and intensity,” said E. Spencer Kyte, a UFC staff writer.

UFC 313 promises to be another defining moment in MMA history, setting the stage for potential legacies. Fans can catch the action live starting with prelims at 8 PM ET on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass.