Pereira Challenges Ankalaev UFC 313 Will Be a Brutal Showdown
Despite initially planning for a break, Alex Pereira has made it clear—he personally requested to fight Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 on March 8. The reigning light heavyweight champion dismissed any notion that he was avoiding the dangerous Russian contender.
“I did say that I wanted to take a break, but I started training again. I started feeling good. I started seeing my evolution. So I called my managers right away and I said, ‘I want to fight. I want to fight in March. I want to fight Ankalaev,’” Pereira told ESPN.
Pereira’s decision came after he resumed training and felt stronger than ever. He insisted that he isn’t just an “employee of the UFC” who takes fights when told—this time, he made the call.
Pereira vs. Ankalaev Set for UFC 313 Main Event
UFC 313 is now officially set with Pereira vs. Ankalaev headlining the pay-per-view at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The Brazilian powerhouse will attempt to defend his belt for the fourth time, further cementing his dominance in the light heavyweight division.
For Pereira, this isn’t just another fight—it’s a statement. Ankalaev has been vocal about being the rightful title challenger, but Pereira isn’t backing down. He wanted this fight, and now he’s getting it.
Pereira: “I’m Ready for Ankalaev”
While many see Magomed Ankalaev as one of the toughest threats in the division, Pereira remains unfazed.
“He’s as dangerous as any other fighter I’ve fought,” Pereira stated. “Looking at him, the way that he fights, he’s an ordinary guy. Of course, he has his weapons, and he has his dangers, but I’ve been training hard. I’ve evolved a lot, and I’m ready for him.”
The Brazilian superstar has been on a destructive path in the UFC. Holding a 12-2 professional record, Pereira has dominated since moving up to 205 pounds, securing wins over elite names like Jiri Prochazka, Jamahal Hill, and Jan Blachowicz.
His most recent fight saw him obliterate Khalil Rountree with a brutal TKO, further proving that he’s the most dangerous striker in the division.
Can Ankalaev Stop Pereira’s Reign of Destruction?
With his elite kickboxing and knockout power, Pereira is a nightmare matchup for anyone. However, Ankalaev brings a well-rounded game, blending elite wrestling and striking—a skill set that could pose serious problems for the champion.
Pereira’s Confidence vs. Ankalaev’s Precision
Alex Pereira’s confidence is undeniable, but Magomed Ankalaev is no slouch. Known for his calm demeanor and technical precision, Ankalaev has been steadily climbing the ranks with dominant victories. His methodical approach and ability to neutralize opponents’ strengths make him a dangerous challenger for Pereira.
However, Pereira believes his evolution as a fighter will be the key to success. His striking power is his biggest asset, and with his kickboxing background, he’s accustomed to facing dangerous opponents who can strike from anywhere. Yet, Ankalaev’s ground game could be the X-factor that shifts the tide of this fight.
As both fighters prepare for this epic showdown, it’s clear: one will continue to reign supreme, while the other could be crowned the new champion. This clash is one for the ages, and UFC 313 will reveal if Pereira’s destructive power is enough to keep his belt or if Ankalaev’s precision will prevail.
