Magomed Ankalaev secured a unanimous decision victory over Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 313, which took place on March 8th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The light heavyweight clash saw Ankalaev’s strategic game plan prevail over Pereira’s striking prowess. The fight was broadcast live on ESPN+ pay-per-view.
Official Result: Magomed Ankalaev defeated Alex Pereira by unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47 x2).
Fight Highlights and Round-by-Round Analysis
Round 1
Referee Marc Goddard oversaw the main event. The fight began cautiously with no glove touch. Ankalaev maintained distance, wary of Pereira’s leg kicks. Pereira utilized several low switch kicks early. Ankalaev responded with a few leg kicks of his own but remained largely inactive offensively. Pereira seemed to edge the round with his activity.
MMA Fighting scored the round 10-9 for Pereira.
Round 2
Ankalaev attempted to establish his jab, but Pereira’s range control and continued leg kicks were effective. Ankalaev mixed in a front kick to the body. Pereira persisted with leg kicks. Ankalaev landed a strong 1-2 combination, pushing Pereira back and followed up with more strikes. Ankalaev finished the round strong, landing a left hand that staggered Pereira, potentially stealing the round.
MMA Fighting scored the round 10-9 for Ankalaev, making it 19-19 overall.
Round 3
Ankalaev initiated Round 3 with a series of leg and body kicks. Pereira needed to adjust his strategy as Ankalaev’s footwork and attacks were proving effective. Ankalaev attempted a takedown, but Pereira defended well. Pereira continued to target Ankalaev’s lead leg with kicks. Ankalaev briefly grappled and landed a knee to the body before Pereira escaped. Pereira landed counter punches, but Ankalaev remained confident, landing a strong jab. Despite Ankalaev’s pressure, Pereira’s activity might have been enough to take the round.
MMA Fighting scored the round 10-9 for Pereira, placing him ahead 29-28 overall.
Round 4
Ankalaev immediately pursued a takedown against Pereira. Pereira initially defended well, but Ankalaev pressed him against the fence, controlling the position and limiting Pereira’s striking opportunities. After a period of inactivity, the referee separated them. Ankalaev landed a left hand and initiated another takedown attempt, returning to the fence control strategy. Ankalaev’s control likely secured him the round.
MMA Fighting scored the round 10-9 for Ankalaev, leveling the score at 38-38 overall.
Round 5
Ankalaev started the final round with body kicks. Pereira responded with leg kicks. Ankalaev connected with a strong right hand. Pereira landed jabs and inside leg kicks. Ankalaev attempted a takedown in the final minutes, threatening to take Pereira’s back, but Pereira remained standing. Ankalaev’s control in the later part of the round, despite not inflicting significant damage, might have been enough to edge the round.
MMA Fighting scored the round 10-9 for Pereira, giving him a 48-47 overall victory according to their scorecard, although the official decision favored Ankalaev.
