Alex Pereira, the undisputed UFC light heavyweight champion, is set to defend his title against the formidable Russian contender, Magomed Ankalaev, in the main event of UFC 313 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on March 8, 2025. This highly anticipated clash marks Pereira’s first fight of the year and his fourth title defense since claiming the 205-pound crown with a spectacular second-round TKO victory over former champion Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295 in November 2023. The Brazilian champion enjoyed a remarkably prolific 2024, successfully defending his title three times and cementing his status as the dominant force in the light heavyweight division. His impressive knockout power and aggressive fighting style have earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, and his name has even been mentioned in connection with a potential superfight against heavyweight champion Jon Jones.
Pereira’s journey to UFC dominance began in the world of kickboxing, where he captured world titles in two different weight classes. He then transitioned to mixed martial arts and replicated his championship success in the UFC, first capturing the middleweight title before moving up to light heavyweight and achieving the same feat. His upcoming bout against Ankalaev presents a significant challenge, as the Russian contender is determined to finally capture UFC gold after several setbacks and controversial decisions in his pursuit of a title.
Magomed Ankalaev enters this title fight with a burning desire to claim the championship that has eluded him. His previous attempt to win the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 282 ended in a frustrating split draw against Jan Blachowicz. He then faced further misfortune when his fight against Johnny Walker was declared a no contest due to an illegal knee, halting his momentum once again. However, Ankalaev showed resilience and determination, bouncing back with a second-round knockout victory in the rematch against Walker, his first win in 18 months. He followed that up with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 308, solidifying his position as a top contender and earning him a second shot at the light heavyweight title.
The clash between Pereira and Ankalaev promises to be a thrilling encounter, pitting the champion’s devastating striking power against the challenger’s well-rounded skills and unwavering determination. Both fighters possess knockout power, and their contrasting styles are sure to create fireworks inside the Octagon. Pereira’s aggressive, forward-pressing approach and knack for finding the finish will be tested against Ankalaev’s more calculated and strategic game plan. The Russian contender will likely look to utilize his wrestling and grappling skills to neutralize Pereira’s striking and dictate the pace of the fight.
UFC 313 is shaping up to be a stacked card, with the Pereira vs. Ankalaev title fight serving as the centerpiece of an exciting night of action. In addition to the main event, the card features another highly anticipated matchup between lightweight fan favorites Justin Gaethje and Dan Hooker. Known for their aggressive, all-action fighting styles, both Gaethje and Hooker are guaranteed to deliver a thrilling spectacle for the fans. The women’s strawweight division will also be showcased, as top 10 contenders Amanda Lemos and Iasmin Lucindo face off in a bout with potential title implications.
The remainder of the UFC 313 card boasts a variety of exciting matchups across different weight classes, featuring rising prospects and established veterans alike. Bruno Silva and Joshua Van will clash in a flyweight bout, while Armen Petrosyan and Brunno Ferreira will square off in the middleweight division. Jhonata Diniz and Vitor Petrino will bring their heavyweight power to the Octagon, while Carlos Leal and Alex Morono will battle it out in a welterweight contest. Chris Gutierrez and Jean Matsumoto will face each other in a bantamweight clash, and Ozzy Diaz and Djorden Santos will meet in the middleweight division. Finally, Marion Santos and Francis Marshall will compete in a featherweight bout, rounding out a card packed with thrilling matchups from top to bottom. The event promises to be a night of non-stop action and excitement for MMA fans around the world.
