Sat Mar 08 23:30:00 UTC 2025: **UFC 313: Pereira Defends Title Against Ankalaev in Las Vegas Showdown**
LAS VEGAS, NV – UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira will make his first Octagon appearance of 2025 this Saturday, putting his title on the line against Magomed Ankalaev in the main event of UFC 313 at the T-Mobile Arena. The highly anticipated fight card, airing on ESPN+ PPV, features a rematch in the co-main event between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev.
Pereira, ranked No. 2 pound-for-pound by ESPN, enters the fight with a four-fight knockout streak, most recently defeating Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307. His opponent, Ankalaev, ESPN’s No. 2 light heavyweight, boasts an impressive 13-fight unbeaten streak. Analysts predict a clash of styles, with Pereira relying on his range and striking, while Ankalaev will likely need to utilize his wrestling to overcome Pereira’s power. The outcome hinges on Ankalaev’s ability to close the distance and avoid Pereira’s devastating leg kicks.
The co-main event sees a rematch between Gaethje and Fiziev, with Fiziev stepping in on short notice after Gaethje’s original opponent, Dan Hooker, withdrew due to injury. While Gaethje won their previous encounter by majority decision, many believe Fiziev’s superior striking gives him the edge this time around.
ESPN’s betting expert Ian Parker offers his predictions, favoring Ankalaev as a slight underdog against Pereira, citing Ankalaev’s potential ground advantage. Parker also predicts Fiziev to win the co-main event, along with several other fights on the card based on stylistic matchups and fighter form. The event promises a night of exciting matchups and high-stakes competition for UFC fans.
First Piper 