Magomed Ankalaev scored what many fans are calling an upset at UFC 313, taking down the undisputed light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira by unanimous decision on March 8, 2025. The fight, held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, left spectators buzzing, not only for the result but for the underwhelming performance seen from Pereira. Judges scored the match 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47, establishing Ankalaev as the new champion.
Throughout the contest, Ankalaev leveraged significant forward pressure and tactical strikes, forcing Pereira to grapple with the fight plan laid out before him. “I can’t put it with words, it’s been such a long wait to reach my dream - the title is on my waist,” Ankalaev stated after his victory. With the win, Ankalaev became the third fighter from Dagestan to capture the title, joining the famed ranks of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev.
Despite coming off impressive three title defenses over the last year, Pereira found it challenging to maintain his signature aggressive style against the relentless approach of Ankalaev. While the Brazilian attempted several leg kicks from the outset, which initially seemed to bother Ankalaev, the tide shifted as the Russian began to land his own combinations effectively. “I knew it would be a war,” Pereira admitted post-fight, expressing respect for Ankalaev’s effectiveness. “He put some pressure on in the second round, but putting me up against the cage, he didn’t really do anything.”
Although Pereira successfully thwarted Ankalaev’s takedown attempts throughout the five-round bout, it was Ankalaev’s clinches and consistent pressure combined with tactical strikes from different angles—particularly effective punches—where he found his winning edge.
The post-fight discussion also shifted to the possibility of an immediate rematch. Many fans and analysts felt disappointed by the fight's overall energy, with Ankalaev himself stating, “It was very different from what we envisioned,” and pointing fingers at Pereira for seemingly running away throughout the match. “Maybe in the rematch, he can fight for real and not just run away the entire time,” Ankalaev quipped, highlighting the awkward tone the match set.
UFC 313 also showcased exciting events outside of the light heavyweight title fight. The co-main event saw Justin Gaethje secure victory against Rafael Fiziev through unanimous decision after demonstrating impressive skills, dropping his opponent with clean strikes and maintaining aggressive pressure for the duration. Gaethje's win marked his return to form after breaking a fighting hiatus due to injuries.
“I feel like I have redemption,” Gaethje commented post-fight. The lightweight division is no stranger to dramatic shifts, and Gaethje’s latest win only enhances the growing intrigue within it. Meanwhile, fighters on the preliminary card also showcased their talents: Ignacio Bahamondes scored his submission victory against Jalin Turner with just over two minutes left in the first round.
The fight card also included Amanda Lemos defeating Iasmin Lucindo and Mauricio Ruffy knocking out King Green with a spinning heel kick, indicative of the unpredictable and electrifying nature of UFC matchups.
Reflecting on Pereira’s performance, some may question how this fight will impact his career moving forward. Just one fight prior, Pereira had established himself as one of the sport’s biggest names, becoming the first fighter to simultaneously hold titles across two divisions. The reigning champion’s loss sets the stage for intriguing promotional decisions from the UFC, as they balance Pereira's marketability with his recent performance and Ankalaev's rise.
While speculation swirls about what lies next for both fighters, the general sentiment from experts is clear: this bout will demand attention, and discussions around rematches will frame future UFC events. For now, Ankalaev stands tall with the new title, promising what could be the dawning of another thrilling chapter within the lightweight class.