The UFC has launched the entire first battle between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira freed from cost on YouTube, setting the stage for his or her extremely anticipated rematch at UFC 320 on October 4. The promotional transfer supplies followers worldwide with unfettered entry to the bout that noticed Ankalaev dethrone Pereira through unanimous choice at UFC 313 in March.
Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira
The unique UFC 313 bout marked a major turning level within the mild heavyweight division. Pereira, who had established himself as one of many sport’s most feared strikers with three title defenses in 2024, appeared hesitant all through the competition. Ankalaev’s recreation plan centered on making use of fixed ahead strain whereas neutralizing Pereira’s signature leg kicks and countering with sharp boxing combos.
Statistical evaluation from the battle reveals Pereira landed solely 12 vital head strikes throughout 25 minutes, an unusually low output for a fighter recognized for his devastating energy. Ankalaev efficiently defended all 12 takedown makes an attempt whereas controlling the putting exchanges, notably in rounds two and 4 the place his strain combating earned clear victories on the scorecards.
The judges awarded Ankalaev the victory with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, ending Pereira’s reign and establishing himself as the brand new mild heavyweight champion. The Russian fighter’s victory marked the end result of an 13-fight unbeaten streak courting again to his UFC debut loss in 2018.
Former UFC mild heavyweight Jamahal Hill recognized the important thing adjustment Pereira should make for the rematch, emphasizing elevated output and cardio conditioning. Hill instructed Pereira wants to include extra kicks whereas sustaining increased quantity all through the five-round contest to keep away from the tactical stagnation that plagued his first encounter with Ankalaev.
Fight sports activities analyst Dan Hardy famous that Pereira appeared overly cautious within the preliminary bout, probably overthinking Ankalaev’s wrestling menace regardless of efficiently defending each takedown try. Hardy really useful that Pereira undertake a extra aggressive strategy, using close-range strain and Thai clinch work to manage the gap and stop Ankalaev from establishing his most well-liked putting vary.
The bout headlines a championship doubleheader at UFC 320, with bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili defending his title in opposition to Cory Sandhagen within the co-main occasion. The cardboard additionally options former Pereira victims Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr. in what seems to be a primary contender eliminator. on October 4, 2025.
