UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira had an outstanding 2024. Now, he is set to face what many regard as his most formidable opponent. Magomed Ankalaev will challenge Pereira for the title at UFC 313.
On March 8, Pereira and Ankalaev will headline the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pereira was a top contender for the 2024 Fighter of the Year, following notable victories over Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr. These opponents, primarily strikers, faced major challenges against the renowned kickboxer Pereira.
Many believe that Ankalaev offers a well-rounded fighting style that could pose new challenges for the champion, especially with his wrestling skills. Previously, Ankalaev fought Jan Blachowicz to a majority draw for the vacant light heavyweight title. He remains undefeated over 13 fights since a submission loss in his UFC debut.
Saturday’s co-main event is already expected to be a fight of the year contender, featuring former BMF champion Justin Gaethje against Dan Hooker in a five-round non-title bout. Gaethje is celebrated as one of the most electrifying fighters, achieving 13 performance bonuses in his 13 UFC outings. In contrast, Hooker aims to bounce back from a difficult stretch, recently gathering momentum with a three-fight winning streak leading into UFC 313.
Complete Fight Card:
- Alex Pereira (c) -115 vs. Magomed Ankalaev -105, light heavyweight title
- Justin Gaethje -160 vs. Dan Hooker +135, lightweight
- King Green vs. Mauricio Ruffy, lightweight
- Bruno Silva vs. Joshua Van, flyweight
- Amanda Lemos vs. Iasmin Lucindo, women’s strawweight
- Mairon Santos vs. Francis Marshall, featherweight
- Alex Morono vs. Carlos Leal, welterweight
- Brunno Ferreira vs. Armen Petrosyan, middleweight
- Chris Gutierrez vs. Jean Matsumoto, bantamweight
- Djorden Santos vs. Ozzy Diaz, middleweight
Event Details:
- Date: March 8
- Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
- Start time: 10 p.m. ET (Main card)
- How to watch: ESPN+ PPV
