Ankalaev’s Relentless Pressure Secures Victory

Magomed Ankalaev shocked the MMA world by defeating Alex Pereira via unanimous decision to win the light-heavyweight championship at UFC 313 in Las Vegas. The Russian fighter dominated the contest, using relentless pressure to neutralize Pereira’s striking ability. The judges scored the bout 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46 in Ankalaev’s favor.

“I can’t express what this means. I waited so long for this moment, and now the belt is mine,” Ankalaev said after his victory.

He credited his team and homeland, stating, “Nothing surprised me. I could have done better, but I’m happy I won. I want to thank my team, Russia, and Dagestan. We have another championship now.”

Pereira Faces His Toughest Challenge Yet

Alex Pereira, one of UFC’s fastest-rising stars, faced his biggest challenge against Ankalaev. Since debuting in the UFC in 2021, Pereira made history by winning titles in two weight divisions within just seven fights. He captured the middleweight belt before moving up and securing the light-heavyweight title.

Last year, he defended his title three times, earning UFC Fighter of the Year honors alongside Ilia Topuria. However, experts predicted that Ankalaev’s wrestling and pressure-based approach would pose a serious challenge. While grappling played a role, Ankalaev’s striking and relentless forward movement proved to be the deciding factors.

Ankalaev entered the bout on an 11-fight unbeaten streak and had been undefeated since 2018. His victory marked redemption after a failed title attempt in 2022, where he fought Jan Blachowicz to a controversial split draw.

Fight Breakdown: Ankalaev’s Pressure Prevails

The fight began with Pereira displaying his signature intense stare before opening with sharp leg kicks. By the end of Round 1, Ankalaev’s calf showed visible damage from Pereira’s powerful strikes.

In Round 2, Ankalaev responded with precise punch combinations, wobbling Pereira with a straight left just before the bell.

Midway through the fight, Pereira continued his aggressive leg-kicking strategy. Ankalaev countered with front kicks and powerful strikes, staying competitive. He then used grappling to wear Pereira down, pressing him against the cage and forcing him to expend energy.

Pereira had moments of success, landing more leg kicks and even stunning Ankalaev with a sharp jab. However, the Russian finished strong, controlling the action in the final minutes and solidifying his victory.

Both fighters raised their hands in celebration after the final bell, but it was Ankalaev who officially claimed the belt.

Pereira’s loss ends his dominant light-heavyweight reign, stopping him from securing a fourth title defense within a year. Meanwhile, Ankalaev extended his winning streak to 12 fights, cementing his place as the division’s new champion.

Post-Fight Reactions

Pereira acknowledged Ankalaev’s strategy, saying, “I knew it would be tough. He pressured me in the second round, but when he put me against the cage, he didn’t do much.”

Despite the loss, Pereira remains motivated. “I’m going to keep training. I feel good. I’ll take a few days off and get back to work. This is my life.”

Co-Main Event: Gaethje Returns to Winning Ways

In the co-main event, Justin Gaethje made a triumphant return, defeating Rafael Fiziev in a thrilling fight.

Gaethje, 36, stepped into the octagon for the first time since suffering a knockout loss to Max Holloway one year ago. With a polished striking display, he secured a decision victory, putting himself back in title contention.

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