UFC 313 is set to bring fireworks to Las Vegas this Saturday night (March 8, 2025) as light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira defends his title against Magomed Ankalaev in the main event at T-Mobile Arena. The co-main event sees Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev run it back after their first thrilling encounter at UFC 286. With a stacked card featuring Ignacio Bahamondes vs. Jalin Turner, Amanda Lemos vs. Iasmin Lucindo, and King Green vs. Mauricio Ruffy, fight fans are in for an unforgettable night of high-stakes action.
Who leaves the Octagon victorious? Let’s break it down.
Light Heavyweight Championship: Alex Pereira (12-2) vs. Magomed Ankalaev (19-1-1, 1 NC)
Over the past few years, Alex Pereira has become one of the UFC’s biggest stars, moving from middleweight to light heavyweight and continuing his reign of destruction. Since winning the 205-pound strap by knocking out Jiří Procházka, “Poatan” has remained the most active champion on the roster, taking out top contenders with his signature power. His striking resume is unmatched, featuring a terrifying left hook and precision kickboxing that has left a trail of unconscious opponents.
However, Magomed Ankalaev presents one of Pereira’s most dangerous tests to date. The Russian boasts an elite wrestling game, heavy ground-and-pound, and a measured striking approach that has kept him undefeated in his last 13 fights. Ankalaev is calculated and well-rounded, but he has been criticized for his lack of urgency, particularly in his controversial draw against Jan Błachowicz. If he fights cautiously against Pereira, he may find himself in trouble.
The key question is whether Ankalaev will commit to his wrestling early or attempt to strike with Pereira. If he opts for a stand-up battle, he’s playing with fire. Pereira has mastered the art of controlling distance, chopping down opponents with leg kicks, and landing knockout blows with surgical precision. Ankalaev’s best path to victory lies in relentless takedowns and grinding control. However, Pereira has been sharpening his defensive wrestling alongside former champion Glover Teixeira, and his ability to stay on his feet will determine the outcome.
Prediction:
While Ankalaev has the tools to drag this fight into deep waters, he lacks the aggressive grappling approach needed to neutralize Pereira’s striking. Expect the champion to weather an early wrestling threat before finding his timing and landing a devastating knockout.
Alex Pereira via TKO (Round 3)
Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje (25-5) vs. Rafael Fiziev (12-3)
Originally set to face Dan Hooker, Justin Gaethje now finds himself in a rematch against Rafael Fiziev after “The Hangman” withdrew due to injury. Their first fight at UFC 286 was a war, with Gaethje securing a close majority decision. Now, Fiziev gets another shot, but he’s coming off a long layoff due to a knee injury, making this a risky return fight.
Gaethje remains one of the most dangerous lightweights in UFC history, known for his relentless pressure, knockout power, and legendary durability. Despite suffering a brutal buzzer-beater knockout against Max Holloway at UFC 300, “The Highlight” is determined to get back in the win column and work toward another title shot. His leg kicks and dirty boxing will be crucial in slowing down Fiziev’s explosive striking.
Fiziev, a world-class Muay Thai striker, has the speed and precision to outgun Gaethje in a technical battle. His kicking arsenal and movement could pose problems if he stays disciplined and avoids unnecessary brawls. However, Fiziev’s gas tank has been questionable in longer fights, and Gaethje is notorious for pushing a breakneck pace.
Prediction:
While Fiziev may win early exchanges, Gaethje’s experience, durability, and pressure will take over as the fight progresses. Expect a war, but Gaethje’s volume and forward movement should earn him a decision victory.
Justin Gaethje via Unanimous Decision
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