The excitement was electric at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as UFC 313 took place on March 8th, featuring thrilling fights and unforgettable moments. In the spotlight of this spectacular evening was Magomed Ankalaev, who faced the formidable Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title. The stakes were high, and the fighters certainly delivered in a night filled with action!
Ankalaev Clinches the Title
Magomed Ankalaev secured the UFC light heavyweight championship by defeating Alex Pereira with a unanimous decision. This victory marked a significant achievement for Ankalaev, as he officially became the 18th undisputed champion in this weight class. With his hard-fought win, Ankalaev has solidified his place in the UFC history books, showcasing his skills and determination throughout the fight.
How the Fight Unfolded
- Round 1: The fight kicked off with both fighters testing each other’s defenses. Pereira started strong, using his characteristic aggressive style, but Ankalaev matched his energy with effective counter-attacks.
- Round 2: Ankalaev continued to show resilience, landing significant strikes that seemed to shift the momentum in his favor. Despite a solid performance from Pereira, Ankalaev began to control the pace of the fight.
- Round 3: As the rounds progressed, Ankalaev’s experience shone through. He demonstrated remarkable stamina and strategy, avoiding Pereira’s powerful strikes while landing precise counters.
- Round 4: The fighters battled intensely, with each attempt to gain an upper hand witnessed by a passionate crowd. Ankalaev’s consistency and determination became clearer as the fight continued.
- Round 5: In the final round, both fighters were on high alert, but Ankalaev maintained his composure, closing out the match strongly, ensuring the judges’ scorecards would favor him.
Notable Fights from UFC 313
While Ankalaev vs. Pereira was undoubtedly the main event, several other fighters also made their mark during UFC 313 with standout performances:
| Fight | Winner | Method | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pereira vs. Ankalaev | Ankalaev | Unanimous Decision | 5 |
| Gaethje vs. Fiziev | Gaethje | Unanimous Decision | 3 |
| Turner vs. Bahamondes | Bahamondes | Submission (Triangle Choke) | 1 |
| Lemos vs. Lucindo | Lemos | Unanimous Decision | 3 |
| Green vs. Ruffy | Ruffy | KO | 1 |
Recognition for a Legend
Besides the adrenaline-pumping fights, the event also celebrated the legacy of Robbie Lawler, who was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. Lawler’s contributions to the sport have inspired many aspiring fighters, and this honor reflects his incredible career and impact on MMA.
Where to Catch More UFC Action
If you’re excited to watch more thrilling UFC matchups, don’t forget to subscribe to ESPN+. This platform offers fans a chance to catch all the live action, including the early prelims and main events, with an annual pass available for $119.99!
With UFC 313 now part of the history books, fans are left buzzing about the fights and eagerly anticipating what’s next for the champions and contenders within the octagon. Whether you are a casual viewer or a die-hard fan, the world of UFC continues to excite and entertain!
