LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - March 8, 2025. The MMA world gathered at the T-Mobile Arena for UFC 313, where headlining the event was the highly-anticipated title bout between reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and the formidable contender Magomed Ankalaev.
Pereira, whose record stands at 12 wins and 2 losses, defended his title for the fourth time within just 11 months. His matches have been notable for finishing opponents with his incredible knockout power, having claimed victory through TKOs against formidable fighters such as Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr. during his astonishing run last year.
"Pereira brought the full weight of his kickboxing prowess to MMA, earning accolades and recognition since his debut. He has consistently displayed the explosive nature of his punches, and many wonder if Ankalaev can withstand it," said one UFC analyst.
On the other side, Ankalaev, with a professional record of 20 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, has built his reputation as one of the most skilled grapplers. The Dagestani fighter has faced his share of adversity, including fighting to a split draw against Jan Blachowicz for the vacant light heavyweight title earlier. "I feel sorry for whoever is gonna fight me from now going forward," he said, indicating his motivation for this title fight.
The main event was part of a rich card, where the co-main event featured fan favorites Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev meeting again—this time with Fiziev stepping up to replace the injured Dan Hooker. Gaethje is well-recognized for his crowd-pleasing fighting style, which earned him several fight-night bonuses and accolades throughout his career.
"Props to Fiziev for volunteering to take this fight on short notice. Big risk here for me, but this is life as it goes, and we hope to entertain," Gaethje expressed before the fight.
Alongside the headliners, the card featured notable bouts such as Jalin Turner against Ignacio Bahamondes and Amanda Lemos versus Iasmin Lucindo, adding depth and excitement to the evening's lineup.
Fans could view the event as part of ESPN+’s pay-per-view offering, priced at $79.99 for subscribers, with the main card kicking off at 10 p.m. ET, following the preliminary bouts.
Initially, the early prelims were supposed to start at 6:30 p.m. ET but were updated to 7 p.m. ET, allowing fans extra time to assemble for the excitement. The prelims started at 8 p.m. ET, preceding the main events.
With every fight being highly competitive, the tension was palpable. Pereira aimed for another successful defense, showcasing his skills against Ankalaev, who was eager to claim the title after previously being bypassed for opportunities. How would the fight go? Would Pereira maintain his spot at the top, or would Ankalaev achieve his dream of holding UFC gold?
Fans witnessed not only exciting fights but also impressive athletes evident across the card, marking UFC 313 as another significant milestone for the organization. Analysis and reactions flowed through social media platforms as the fights unfolded.
Ankalaev’s wrestling capabilities were on full display as he maneuvered expertly throughout the bout. Still, Pereira countered with his ferocity, making every exchange thrilling to watch. With each round, the strategies began to shape the contest, with fans teetering between nervous anticipation and exhilaration.
Update after update kept pouring out of the fight night, as enthusiastic spectators tuned in across multiple platforms, keeping count of all the action. The overall excitement of UFC 313 echoed through social media and sports news outlets as critics dissected performances and outcomes.
Victory or defeat, both Pereira and Ankalaev showed why they belong at this level of competition, making it clear they are aware of their place within the sport. Potential future match-up narratives began to assemble post-fight, with questions circulating about who may be next on the champion’s radar or which path Ankalaev will take moving forward.
UFC 313 presented clear evidence of the skill, strategy, and intensity required to compete at the highest levels of MMA, establishing its place firmly within UFC history once again.
With fans watching eagerly, the night concluded with highlights of the successful bouts alongside commentary underscoring each athlete's heart, resilience, and remarkable talent. These fighters’ journeys within the octagon are far from over, promising even more excitement as the UFC continues to grow and evolve through years to come.