Alex Pereira’s Shocking Decision Why He Accepted to Fight Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313
Alex Pereira has left fans buzzing with his sudden decision to return to the UFC earlier than expected. After a brutal win over Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307 in October 2024, Pereira made no indication of an early comeback. However, the Brazilian MMA star has revealed that he changed his mind after realizing his training progress. Despite having previously announced a break, Pereira called his managers and expressed his desire to fight Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 on March 8, 2025.
The Champion’s Shifting Mindset: From Break to March Showdown
Initially, Pereira had stated that he wanted time off after his bloody affair with Rountree Jr. However, his mindset changed once he felt the evolution in his skills and physique during training. He shared in an interview with ESPN MMA that, after feeling good in training, he immediately contacted his team to request the match with Ankalaev. “I know he keeps saying I’m just an employee of the UFC, but I asked for him,” Pereira said, underlining his determination to face the undefeated light heavyweight contender.
The Urgency Behind Pereira’s Return: A Title Defense Like No Other
Pereira’s return marks the fourth defense of his UFC light heavyweight title. The 37-year-old Brazilian has been in remarkable form since he claimed the light heavyweight gold by knocking out Jiri Prochazka in November 2023. He has successfully defended the title three times since, including victories over Jamahal Hill and Prochazka again. Now, Magomed Ankalaev, who has gone undefeated in 13 bouts, will be Pereira’s next challenge. The Russian is hungry for a title shot, and UFC fans have been waiting for this showdown for a year.
Ankalaev’s Unbeaten Streak: A Fighter to Watch
Ankalaev’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. The Dagestani fighter has been on a relentless 13-fight unbeaten streak since his debut loss, earning his No. 1 contender status after a unanimous decision victory over Aleksandar Rakic in October 2024. Despite accusations that Pereira had been avoiding Ankalaev, the two are finally set to face off at UFC 313. Pereira has previously mentioned the “lies” Ankalaev spread about him as a reason for avoiding the match, but clearly, those issues are now behind him.
Pereira’s Career Milestone: Chasing Historic Achievements
This bout at UFC 313 holds great significance for Pereira. A win would move him into second place on the all-time list for title fight victories at 205 pounds, surpassing Daniel Cormier with five successful defenses. Pereira’s rapid rise in the UFC—he won two titles faster than anyone in company history—has solidified his place as one of the most dominant champions in modern MMA. The anticipation surrounding this fight is palpable as fans eagerly await what could be another spectacular chapter in his career.
An Epic Co-Main Event: Gaethje vs. Hooker
As if Pereira’s return wasn’t enough to get fans excited, UFC 313 will also feature a dream match between Justin Gaethje and Dan Hooker in a five-round co-main event. Gaethje, a former interim champion, is looking to bounce back after a crushing defeat to Max Holloway at UFC 300 in April 2024. A win over Hooker, who is on a three-fight win streak, could set up a title fight against Islam Makhachev. The stakes are high for both fighters, making this matchup a potential Fight of the Year candidate.
Pereira vs. Ankalaev: A Dream Fight for the Ages
With both Pereira vs. Ankalaev and Gaethje vs. Hooker on the card, UFC 313 promises to deliver two spectacular fights that could redefine the year. Fans are salivating at the thought of Pereira defending his title against Ankalaev, with all eyes on whether the Brazilian can continue his reign as the undisputed light heavyweight king. If these bouts deliver the action that fans expect, UFC 313 will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most electrifying events in the promotion’s history.
