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Magomed Ankalaev stunned Alex Pereira to capture the UFC light-heavyweight title by unanimous decision at UFC 313 in Las Vegas. The judges scored the fight 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46 in favor of Ankalaev, marking the Russian fighter’s greatest career achievement. His relentless pressure and striking precision overwhelmed the defending champion, securing him the belt.

Ankalaev’s Aggressive Strategy Seals the Victory

Ankalaev maintained a high pace throughout the fight, continuously pressing forward to limit Pereira’s opportunities to unleash his signature powerful strikes. His game plan proved successful as Pereira struggled to establish control in the exchanges.

Following the win, an emotional Ankalaev expressed his gratitude, saying, “I can’t put it into words. It’s been such a long wait to achieve my dream—the title is on my waist. I could have done better, but I’m happy I won. I want to thank my team, Russia, Dagestan—everyone. We have another belt now!”

Pereira’s Rapid Rise Faces a Major Setback

Since his UFC debut in 2021, Pereira had taken the MMA world by storm, becoming a two-division champion in just seven fights. He first claimed the middleweight title before moving up to light-heavyweight, where he won the championship and successfully defended it three times in the past year. His impressive run earned him the UFC fighter of the year title alongside Ilia Topuria.

However, Ankalaev presented Pereira with his toughest challenge yet. Many expected the Russian’s wrestling ability to be the deciding factor, but instead, his striking and relentless forward pressure proved crucial in neutralizing Pereira’s attack.

Ankalaev, unbeaten since 2018, extended his winning streak to 12 fights with this victory. This triumph also served as redemption for his controversial 2022 title fight against Jan Blachowicz, which ended in a split draw.

A Tactical Battle with Momentum Swings

The fight began with Pereira deploying his signature leg kicks, a tactic that left visible damage on Ankalaev’s calf. By the end of the first round, redness and swelling were apparent. However, Ankalaev adjusted in the second round, landing crisp punch combinations and wobbling Pereira with a straight left just before the bell.

As the bout progressed, Pereira continued targeting Ankalaev’s legs, while the Russian countered with well-timed punches and front kicks. Ankalaev then turned to his grappling, pressing Pereira against the cage to wear him down.

In the final rounds, Pereira briefly stunned Ankalaev with a jab, but the Russian regained control, finishing the fight strong against the cage. When the final bell rang, both fighters raised their arms, but the judges unanimously awarded the victory to Ankalaev.

Pereira’s defeat ends his dominant light-heavyweight run, halting his quest for a fourth title defense in a single year. Meanwhile, Ankalaev’s triumph cements his place at the top of the division.

“I knew it would be a war,” Pereira admitted. “He pressured me in the second round, but he didn’t do much against the cage. I’ll take a few days off and then get back to training. This is my life.”

Co-Main Event Recap: Gaethje Defeats Fiziev

In the co-main event, American Justin Gaethje secured a decision victory over Azerbaijan’s Rafael Fiziev. Gaethje showcased his superior striking and relentless pace, marking his return to the win column after suffering a knockout loss to Max Holloway a year ago.

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