UFC 313 Countdown: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev – The Light Heavyweight Collision We’ve Been Waiting For

One. More. Sleep.

That’s all that stands between us and what might be the most anticipated light heavyweight showdown of 2024. UFC champion Alex Pereira puts his 205-pound title on the line against the surging Magomed Ankalaev atop the UFC 313 pay-per-view card, and folks, this one has “instant classic” written all over it.

If you’re not hyped yet, you should be. Let me tell you why.

Power vs. Precision: The Ultimate Light Heavyweight Chess Match

When I think about Pereira, I think about that left hook – that absolute death touch that has separated some of the best fighters in the world from their consciousness. The man they call “Poatan” has made a career of turning lights out with terrifying efficiency.

But Ankalaev? He’s a different beast entirely. The Dagestani fighter brings a methodical, calculated approach that has seen him rattle off 12 victories in his last 13 fights (with one controversial draw against Jan Blachowicz).

This matchup represents the classic striker versus grappler dynamic, but with a twist – both men are far more complete than their reputations suggest.

Pereira’s Remarkable UFC Journey

Let’s be real for a second – what Alex Pereira has accomplished in the UFC is nothing short of extraordinary. The man went from GLORY kickboxing champion to UFC middleweight champion in just five fights. Then, after losing the belt to Israel Adesanya, he moved up to light heavyweight and claimed gold there too.

Who does that?

Pereira is now looking at his second title defense at 205 pounds after dispatching Jamahal Hill with frightening ease. His ability to carry his power up a weight class has surprised even his harshest critics.

Fighter	UFC Record	Finishing Rate	Title Fights
Alex Pereira	9-2	78%	4-1
Magomed Ankalaev	10-1-1	50%	0-0-1

Ankalaev: The Division’s Boogeyman Finally Gets His Shot

I’ve been watching Ankalaev’s rise for years, and there’s a reason many fighters aren’t exactly lining up to face him. The man is technically brilliant, patient to a fault, and hits with surprising power when he decides to let his hands go.

After the controversial draw in his first title opportunity against Blachowicz, Ankalaev has been forced to rebuild his case with impressive wins over Johnny Walker and Aleksandar Rakić. Many fans (myself included) believe he’s been the uncrowned champion of this division for some time.

This is his chance to prove it.

Keys to Victory: How Each Fighter Wins

For Pereira, the path to victory seems straightforward: keep the fight at kicking range or in the pocket where his devastating counter-striking can shine. His takedown defense has improved dramatically, but he’ll want to avoid extended grappling exchanges.

Ankalaev needs to mix his striking with well-timed takedown attempts. If he can get Pereira guessing, opportunities will present themselves. The longer this fight goes, the more it should favor the Russian’s methodical approach.

Why This Fight Matters for the Division

The light heavyweight division has been in flux since Jon Jones vacated the title. We’ve seen the belt change hands multiple times, but neither Jiri Prochazka, Jamahal Hill, nor Jan Blachowicz could establish a long reign.

Pereira has the chance to bring stability with another defense, while Ankalaev could usher in a new era of technical dominance reminiscent of Jones (minus the controversies).

And waiting in the wings? Potential matchups with Jiri Prochazka, Jamahal Hill, or even rising star Khalil Rountree Jr. The winner of tomorrow’s fight will have no shortage of compelling challengers.

The Intangibles: What Makes This Special

Beyond the technical aspects, there’s something special about this matchup. Pereira’s journey from kickboxing to two-division UFC champion remains one of the most remarkable stories in combat sports history. Meanwhile, Ankalaev has been the patient predator, biding his time and dispatching everyone put in his path.

The stylistic clash alone would make this must-see TV, but the stakes and personalities involved elevate it to potential fight of the year territory.

How to Watch UFC 313

Don’t miss this light heavyweight showdown tomorrow night on pay-per-view. The prelims kick off at 8 PM ET on ESPN, with the main card starting at 10 PM ET on PPV.

Who are you picking to walk away with the gold? The devastating striker with seemingly supernatural power, or the technical master who’s been waiting years for this moment?

One more sleep, fight fans. One more sleep.

Source: UFC