UFC 313 Main fight Pereira vs Ankalaev
Ankalaev Calculated Victory
Magomed Ankalaev entered UFC 313 as the number one contender, eager to take the light heavyweight title from Alex Pereira. Ankalaev, known for his versatile skills and sambo background, implemented a tactical game plan that eventually led him to victory. He used a combination of punches and wrestling moves, keeping Pereira on the edge of his seat throughout the fight.
Although Ankalaev failed to secure any of his 12 takedown attempts, he controlled Pereira effectively against the fence, neutralising the champion's striking power. It was a surprising result considering Dagestani fighters like Ankalaev are usually associated with wrestling skills. Ankalaev, however, proved his adaptability by overpowering Pereirat and maintaining control in the wrestling exchanges.
Also on the main card was a notable win for Ignacio Bahamondes, who extended his winning streak to three wins by defeating Jalin Turner in the first round.
UFC 313 Co-main Gaethje vs Fiziev 2
Gaethje Perseverance and Persistence
The match was a rematch Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev, two of the most exciting lightweights in the UFC. This fight, like their previous meeting at UFC 286 in 2023, which Gaethje won by majority decision, proved to be another thriller.
In this hastily booked rematch, Gaethje again showed his toughness and determination, overcoming a first round knockout to secure a hard-fought unanimous decision victory. The turning point of the fight came in the second round when Gaethje, after sinking a jab and dodging an upper cut, responded with a powerful upper cut of his own that sent Fiziev crashing to the mat.
This remarkable blow almost ended the fight, but Fiziev survived to his credit. However, Gaethje's relentless pressure and accurate shots earned him the victory in the end.
UFC 313 Main fight Pereira vs Ankalaev
Pereira's short-term reign
Alex Pereira's reign as light heavyweight champion ended at UFC 313. Despite his impressive knockout power and punching skills, Pereira struggled to find his rhythm against Ankalaev's calculated approach. Pereira's feared left hook, which had brought him success in previous fights, was largely neutralised by Ankalaev's defensive tactics.
Although Pereira showed signs of life in the fifth round, landing a high shot that momentarily stunned Ankalaev, it was not enough to sway the judges' scorecards. Pereira's loss to Ankalaev brings to an end a series of three title wins in the last year, during which the 37-year-old fighter emerged as arguably one of the biggest stars in the sport. A win would have made Pereira the second fastest fighter in UFC history to reach four title titles.
UFC 313 Pereira vs Ankalaev; Gaethje vs Fiziev
The future of the semi-heavyweight division
Victory for Ankalaev UFC 313-l marks a new chapter in the light-heavyweight division. With the dethronement of Pereira, the division is wide open, with several contenders vying for a shot at the title. A potential rematch between Ankalaev and Pereira is certainly a possibility, given the competitiveness of their first meeting.
Other fighters, however, are also eager to claim the title. Interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has expressed interest in a fight with current heavyweight champion Jon Jones., which could potentially open the way for Pereira to move up the heavyweight rankings. The future remains unclear, but one thing is certain - the light heavyweight division is as dynamic and exciting as ever.
UFC 313 Pereira vs Ankalaev; Gaethje vs Fiziev
Conclusion
UFC 313 offered a high-paced night of fights, with Magomed Ankalaev and Justin Gaethje emerging victorious from their encounters. Ankalaev's victory proved how effective a multi-faceted approach can be - he combined strategic wrestling with precision striking to defeat a dangerous opponent.
Gaethje's triumph, on the other hand, stressed the importance of determination and resilience. He was able to survive early difficulties and triumphed thanks to his steadfast willpower and relentless pressure. These battles reaffirm MMA an unpredictable nature, where adaptability and resilience determine success.
The semi-heavyweight division is now entering an exciting new era - Ankalaev is on the throne, but a host of hungry pretenders are ready to challenge his rule.
