When it comes to electrifying matchups in the UFC, Alex Pereira's upcoming clash at UFC 313 with Magomed Ankalaev promises to be nothing short of explosive. Slated for March 8, 2025, at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this bout is more than just another title defense—it’s a defining moment in both fighters’ careers.
In attendance at UFC 311 in Inglewood, Pereira, the reigning Light Heavyweight Champion, opened up about this thrilling announcement. Speaking with UFC.com, he revealed the motivation behind his decision to step back into the Octagon sooner than expected.
“I said I wanted a longer break to rest, but I went back to training and felt I was doing very well,” Pereira shared. “Then I called my manager and told him I wanted to fight. And of course, it would be Ankalaev.”
Pereira’s confidence is well-earned. Since claiming the Light Heavyweight title in November 2023 by defeating Jiri Prochazka, he’s been unstoppable. With three successful title defenses over Jamahal Hill,
Prochazka (again), and Khalil Rountree Jr., Poatan has solidified his legacy as a dominant champion.
However, his clash with Rountree at UFC 307 pushed him to his limits, proving there’s no such thing as an easy fight at this level.
Meanwhile, Ankalaev’s journey to this moment has been just as compelling. After a controversial split draw against Jan Blachowicz in his first title attempt, Ankalaev rebounded with decisive victories over Johnny Walker and Aleksandar Rakic. This earned him the No. 1 contender spot, setting the stage for his showdown with Pereira. But the lead-up hasn’t been without its share of drama.
The two have traded barbs on social media, with Ankalaev taunting Pereira, calling him an “employee” who must “obey.” Pereira, never one to back down, set the record straight. “I am the one who asked for this fight. I want this fight, and I like this matchup,” Pereira declared. “I’ve asked for it before, but he didn’t accept. Now he’s found his courage, so let’s do it. I’m very excited for this fight.”
Despite the heated words, Pereira remains laser-focused on his craft. He acknowledges Ankalaev’s Sambo expertise but is eager to showcase his evolution as a well-rounded MMA fighter. “I’m developing my MMA game all around. I want to show it, and I think he’s a guy who will allow me to do so,” Pereira said confidently. “He says he’ll stand and strike with me, and maybe he will, but maybe he won’t. I’m ready for everything.”
For Pereira, this fight is just another challenge in a career defined by overcoming obstacles. “He’s a tough opponent, but I don’t see anything different from the other guys I fought,” he stated, dismissing any suggestion that Ankalaev might hold a unique edge.
With the stakes sky-high, UFC 313 promises to be a night to remember. Can Pereira continue his reign of dominance, or will Ankalaev finally claim the belt he’s been chasing? One thing is certain: fight fans won’t want to miss a single moment.
Mark Your Calendars!
Don’t miss UFC 313: Pereira vs. Ankalaev live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 8, 2025. Prelims begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, followed by the main card live on Pay-Per-View at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Grab your seats or tune in—this is one showdown you can’t afford to miss!