Magomed Ankalaev secured a career-defining victory at UFC 313 in Las Vegas, dethroning Alex Pereira to claim the light-heavyweight championship by unanimous decision. The Russian fighter executed a relentless game plan, pressuring the defending champion throughout the five-round contest to earn a hard-fought victory.
The judges scored the bout 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46 in Ankalaev’s favor, marking a significant milestone in his UFC career. Overwhelmed with emotion, Ankalaev expressed his gratitude post-fight.
“I can’t put it into words, it’s been such a long wait to reach my dream – the title is on my waist,” said Ankalaev. “I think I could have done a better job, but I’m happy I won. I want to thank my team, Russia, Dagestan—everybody—we have another belt now.”
Since joining the UFC in 2021, Pereira has become one of the promotion’s biggest names, securing championships in both the middleweight and light-heavyweight divisions in record time. He defended his 205-pound belt three times in 2023, earning co-fighter of the year honors alongside Ilia Topuria.
However, against Ankalaev, Pereira faced a unique challenge. The Russian’s wrestling skills were expected to pose problems for the former double kickboxing world champion, but it was his striking and relentless forward pressure that ultimately dictated the fight.
Ankalaev entered the contest unbeaten since 2018, winning 11 consecutive fights. He also avenged a missed opportunity from 2022 when a split draw against Jan Blachowicz denied him the belt.
The fight began with Pereira landing a series of signature leg kicks, visibly marking Ankalaev’s lead calf. However, the Russian responded effectively in the second round, connecting with sharp punch combinations and a powerful straight left that rocked the champion before the horn.
Pereira recovered in the middle rounds, continuing to attack Ankalaev’s legs while mixing in high kicks. Yet, Ankalaev’s relentless pressure and grappling exchanges wore down the Brazilian, who began to fade in the later stages. Despite Pereira landing some clean shots in the final moments, Ankalaev closed the fight by controlling the action against the cage, solidifying his dominance.
Both fighters raised their hands in victory at the final bell, but the judges ultimately awarded Ankalaev the win.
Pereira, gracious in defeat, acknowledged the challenge presented by his opponent.
“I knew it would be a war. He put some pressure in the second round, but putting me up against the cage, he didn’t really do anything,” said Pereira. “I’m going to keep training, I feel good. I’ll take a few days off and then get back to work. This is my life.”
With this victory, Ankalaev extended his unbeaten streak to 12 and cemented his status as the new force in the UFC light-heavyweight division. Meanwhile, Pereira’s remarkable run at 205 pounds came to an end as he narrowly missed out on a fourth title defense within a year.
Co-Main Event: Gaethje Returns to Winning Ways
In the co-main event, American Justin Gaethje defeated Azerbaijan’s Rafael Fiziev in an electrifying contest by decision. Gaethje, competing for the first time since suffering a knockout loss to Max Holloway a year ago, showcased his elite striking ability and secured an impressive victory to re-establish himself in the lightweight division.
