Ankalaev Upsets Pereira to Win Light-Heavyweight Belt at UFC 313

In a thrilling battle at UFC 313 in Las Vegas, Magomed Ankalaev emerged victorious over Alex Pereira, claiming the light-heavyweight title by unanimous decision. The Russian fighter put on an impressive performance, consistently pressuring the defending champion and making it difficult for Pereira to land any of his signature devastating strikes. With the win, Ankalaev secured the title with scorecards reading 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, marking the culmination of a long-awaited dream for the 32-year-old fighter.

Ankalaev’s victory over Pereira has stunned the UFC world, as the Brazilian was riding high with an undefeated run in the light-heavyweight division. Pereira had been a dominant champion, and his three successful title defenses last year led to him being named the UFC Fighter of the Year, alongside Ilia Topuria. However, Ankalaev’s relentless striking and grappling proved too much for the Brazilian, and he now holds the coveted light-heavyweight belt.

Ankalaev’s Strategy and Performance Against Pereira

Magomed Ankalaev wins undisputed light heavyweight belt with unanimous decision over Alex Pereira |

Magomed Ankalaev’s victory at UFC 313 was not just a result of his physical skills, but also his intelligent strategy inside the Octagon. Coming into the fight with an undefeated record since 2018 and 11 consecutive wins, Ankalaev demonstrated why he is considered one of the top fighters in the division. His approach to the fight was characterized by consistent pressure and excellent striking, as he never allowed Pereira to settle into a rhythm or find his usual power shots.

Although Ankalaev is known for his grappling, he relied on his striking to edge out the fight. In the early rounds, Pereira tried to establish his leg kicks, which are one of his trademark techniques. By the end of the first round, Ankalaev was already showing signs of damage, with redness on his calf from Pereira’s relentless kicking game. Despite this, Ankalaev remained calm and found success in the second round with a combination of punches, culminating in a straight left hand that rocked the Brazilian just before the round ended.

In the middle rounds, Ankalaev started to gain control by mixing up his striking and grappling. Although Pereira continued to land leg kicks, Ankalaev’s ability to wear him down with his grappling, especially against the cage, made the difference in the latter stages of the fight. Pereira, who had been dominant in the division, was unable to assert himself in the same way he had in his previous bouts.

Ankalaev’s control against the cage in the final rounds, coupled with his effective striking, left Pereira struggling to find his footing. The Russian fighter finished the contest strong, controlling the action and ensuring there were no opportunities for Pereira to capitalize on. It was a well-rounded performance by Ankalaev, who showcased his versatility and high fight IQ in defeating one of the sport’s biggest stars.

Ankalaev’s Journey to the Title

Magomed Ankalaev wins undisputed light heavyweight belt with unanimous decision over Alex Pereira

Magomed Ankalaev’s rise to UFC light-heavyweight champion has been a remarkable one. Since his UFC debut in 2021, Ankalaev has established himself as one of the most feared fighters in the division, with his well-rounded skill set and undefeated streak. Prior to UFC 313, Ankalaev had already secured a notable win against Jan Blachowicz in 2022, although the fight ended in a split draw, which denied him the title at the time.

This draw was seen as a missed opportunity for Ankalaev, but he bounced back from that setback, winning 11 consecutive fights, including a series of dominant performances. UFC 313 presented Ankalaev with his biggest challenge yet in Alex Pereira, a fighter who had quickly become a two-division champion after winning the middleweight belt and moving up to light-heavyweight. However, Ankalaev was determined to prove that he was ready for the title, and his strategy was on point from the opening bell.

The long wait for the title had been a difficult one for Ankalaev, who had come close to gold in previous bouts but had yet to secure the elusive title. After the fight, Ankalaev expressed his relief and excitement, saying, “I can’t put it into words, it’s been such a long wait to reach my dream – the title is on my waist.” The victory not only fulfilled a personal dream but also established Ankalaev as a legitimate force in the light-heavyweight division.

Pereira’s Defeat and the End of a Dominant Run

Alex Pereira loses title to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 | Mixed Martial Arts News |

Alex Pereira’s defeat to Ankalaev marked the end of a remarkable run in the light-heavyweight division. The Brazilian had dominated since his move up from middleweight, quickly capturing the light-heavyweight title in just a few fights. Pereira’s combination of kickboxing and powerful strikes had been nearly unstoppable, and he was poised to defend his title for the fourth time. However, Ankalaev’s performance proved that even the most dangerous fighters can be outclassed when they face a well-rounded opponent.

After the fight, Pereira took the loss in stride, acknowledging that Ankalaev’s pressure had made it difficult for him to execute his usual game plan. “I knew it would be a war. He put some pressure on in the second round, but putting me up against the cage, he didn’t really do anything,” said Pereira, who was disappointed with his performance but remained focused on continuing his training. “I’m going to keep training. I feel good, I’ll have a few days off and then get back in training. This is my life,” he added.

Pereira’s defeat ends his reign as a light-heavyweight champion, but it is not the end of his career. With his proven skill set and striking power, he will undoubtedly remain a top contender in the division. However, Ankalaev’s victory has sent a clear message that the Russian fighter is now the man to beat in the light-heavyweight division.

Ankalaev’s Next Steps as Champion

With the light-heavyweight title now around his waist, Magomed Ankalaev looks ahead to what comes next in his career. Having proved himself as the best in the division, Ankalaev will likely face new challenges from rising contenders who will look to dethrone him. However, with his well-rounded skills, including powerful striking and dominant grappling, Ankalaev is well-positioned to continue his reign at the top.

Ankalaev’s victory at UFC 313 also solidifies his place among the elite fighters in the UFC, and fans will be eager to see how he defends his title in future bouts. His combination of striking pressure and grappling control is a unique and dangerous skill set that makes him a formidable opponent for anyone in the light-heavyweight division.

As for Pereira, while his reign as champion has come to an end, he remains one of the most dangerous and popular fighters in the UFC. He will likely return to the Octagon soon, with a renewed focus on reclaiming his title and adding more victories to his impressive resume.

Conclusion

Magomed Ankalaev’s upset victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 313 has shaken up the light-heavyweight division. With his well-executed strategy and impressive performance, Ankalaev has proved that he belongs at the top of the division. As the new champion, Ankalaev has set his sights on defending his title and continuing his journey to cement his legacy in the UFC. For Pereira, this defeat may mark a setback, but it is unlikely to be the end of his story, as he is still a formidable force in the sport. The light-heavyweight division has a new champion, and Ankalaev is now the man to beat.