On March 8, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Magomed Ankalaev defeated Alex Pereira via unanimous decision to claim the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. This highly anticipated showdown pitted Ankalaev’s elite wrestling and well-rounded skill set against Pereira’s world-class striking and knockout power. Over five rounds, Ankalaev implemented a strategic game plan, using his grappling and counter-striking to neutralize Pereira’s dangerous offense.

This fight had significant stakes, as Pereira was considered one of the most dangerous strikers in UFC history. Meanwhile, Ankalaev had long been seen as a dark horse in the division, often overlooked despite his dominant performances. However, at UFC 313, he made his case as the best light heavyweight in the world.

Pre-Fight Build-Up

Alex Pereira’s Journey to UFC 313

Alex Pereira entered the fight as the reigning UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. After winning the middleweight belt and knocking out Israel Adesanya in 2022, he moved up to 205 lbs, where he continued his reign of terror. He captured the title at UFC 295, knocking out Jiří Procházka with his trademark left hook. His unique striking ability, honed from years as a Glory Kickboxing champion, made him one of the most feared fighters in the UFC.

Pereira’s key strength was his precision and power. Every punch, kick, knee, and elbow he threw had knockout potential. However, many analysts believed his biggest weakness was his grappling. Fighters like Adesanya had taken him down before, and Ankalaev—a Dagestani with elite wrestling—posed a serious threat.

Magomed Ankalaev’s Path to the Title

Magomed Ankalaev had been on the cusp of championship status for years. With a background in sambo and kickboxing, he had compiled an impressive UFC record. Many believed he had already deserved the title after his controversial draw against Jan Błachowicz at UFC 282. Despite setbacks due to UFC matchmaking and injuries, Ankalaev stayed active and built momentum with dominant victories over top-ranked opponents.

Ankalaev’s fighting style was methodical. He combined heavy hands, solid defense, and world-class wrestling to break down opponents over five rounds. His ability to mix striking with takedowns made him a nightmare for any fighter, including Pereira.

As the fight approached, many expected a classic striker vs. grappler battle, with Pereira looking for a knockout and Ankalaev seeking to wear him down with wrestling.

Round-by-Round Fight Analysis

Round 1: Pereira’s Strong Start

Pereira opened the fight with a steady stream of leg kicks, targeting Ankalaev’s lead leg. These kicks were visibly effective early on, forcing Ankalaev to adjust his stance. Every time Ankalaev tried to close the distance, Pereira would fire a kick or jab to keep him at bay.

Ankalaev, known for his patience, did not panic. He absorbed the kicks while circling away from Pereira’s power side. Midway through the round, Ankalaev landed a clean right hand that got Pereira’s attention. However, Pereira continued his offensive, landing a hard body kick that briefly slowed Ankalaev.

In the final minute, Pereira launched a quick combination, finishing with a left hook that grazed Ankalaev. Despite Pereira’s control of the distance, Ankalaev remained composed and ended the round with a solid counter right hand.

• Round Winner: Pereira (10-9)

Round 2: Ankalaev’s Adjustments

The second round saw Ankalaev implement a new strategy. He feinted more, keeping Pereira guessing, and started checking some of the Brazilian’s leg kicks. This minor adjustment prevented Pereira from dictating the fight’s pace.

A minute into the round, Ankalaev landed a powerful one-two combination that staggered Pereira slightly. Seeing an opportunity, Ankalaev rushed in but wisely avoided engaging in a reckless brawl. Instead, he mixed in level changes, making Pereira hesitate before throwing kicks.

Pereira still had his moments, including a beautifully timed knee to the body, but Ankalaev’s improved pressure was evident. Toward the end of the round, Ankalaev scored his first takedown. Though Pereira quickly scrambled back up, Ankalaev had made a statement: he could take him down.

• Round Winner: Ankalaev (10-9)

Round 3: Ankalaev’s Dominance Begins

Ankalaev truly took control in Round 3. He continued his forward pressure, forcing Pereira to fight off his back foot. Pereira attempted to set up counters, but Ankalaev’s head movement and defensive awareness minimized any damage.

Two minutes into the round, Ankalaev shot for another takedown and secured it. This time, Pereira was unable to immediately escape. Ankalaev quickly transitioned to half guard and began landing short elbows. Pereira tried to explode out, but Ankalaev’s top control was too strong.

For nearly three minutes, Ankalaev smothered Pereira, landing strikes and making him work defensively. Pereira survived without taking too much damage, but by the end of the round, he looked exhausted.

• Round Winner: Ankalaev (10-9)

Round 4: Pereira’s Last Stand

Pereira knew he needed to turn things around. He came out aggressive, throwing a spinning back kick and a high kick that barely missed. Ankalaev, however, remained composed. He absorbed a few shots but continued pressing forward.

Midway through the round, Pereira landed a powerful left hook that briefly wobbled Ankalaev. The crowd erupted as Pereira pushed forward, looking for the finish. But Ankalaev, showing incredible composure, clinched and slowed Pereira’s momentum.

With two minutes left, Ankalaev secured another takedown and rode out the round in dominant position, ensuring he stayed ahead on the scorecards.

• Round Winner: Ankalaev (10-9)

Round 5: Ankalaev Seals the Victory

Going into the final round, it was clear that Pereira needed a knockout to win. He came out aggressively, throwing everything he had left. He landed a solid body kick and a straight right hand, but Ankalaev remained unfazed.

Ankalaev wisely avoided unnecessary risks, using his jab and footwork to maintain distance. With two minutes remaining, he landed a clean right hook, forcing Pereira to backpedal. Ankalaev then clinched and secured another takedown, holding Pereira down for the remainder of the fight.

As the final horn sounded, Ankalaev raised his hands in victory, knowing he had done enough to win.

• Round Winner: Ankalaev (10-9)
• Final Scorecards: 49-46, 48-47, 48-47 for Ankalaev

Post-Fight Reactions

Magomed Ankalaev (Winner, New Champion)

“This is the moment I’ve been waiting for. I knew my wrestling and striking were enough to beat Pereira. I respect him, but I am the best light heavyweight in the world.”

Alex Pereira (Defeated, Former Champion)

“This is not the end. I will go back to the gym and train harder. Maybe I’ll get another chance.”

Dana White (UFC President)

“We’ll see what’s next, but Pereira is a warrior, and Ankalaev showed why he’s dangerous. A rematch? Maybe. There are a lot of options at 205.”

What’s Next?

With this victory, Ankalaev now holds the light heavyweight belt. Possible challengers include Jiří Procházka and Jamahal Hill. For Pereira, a rematch or even a move to heavyweight could be on the table.

UFC 313 delivered an incredible main event, proving that Ankalaev is the real deal and leaving fans excited for what’s next in the division