Magomed Ankalaev Dethrones Alex Pereira to Claim Light Heavyweight Title at UFC 313

UFC 313: Pereira vs Ankalaev – Main Card Results & Highlights

Live from T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, UFC 313 delivered thrilling action with unexpected twists and unforgettable moments.

Despite multiple changes to the fight card leading up to the event, UFC 313 exceeded expectations, showcasing electrifying performances across the board. From a jaw-dropping knockout to a tactical main event, here’s how the night unfolded.

Main Card Results & Highlights:

Main Event: Magomed Ankalaev Defeats Alex Pereira by Unanimous Decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47)

Magomed Ankalaev made history as he dethroned Alex Pereira to claim the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship in a highly tactical fight.

• Round 1: Pereira targeted Ankalaev’s lead leg with low kicks, but Ankalaev stayed calm and focused, landing crisp strikes to set the tone.
• Round 2: Ankalaev gained momentum, wobbling Pereira late in the round and displaying superior striking.
• Round 3: A closely contested round saw both fighters trade minor successes. Pereira’s low kicks continued, but Ankalaev’s punches kept landing clean.
• Rounds 4 & 5: Ankalaev shifted to a more aggressive style, closing the distance and clinching, where he wore Pereira down. The champion showed signs of fatigue, and although Pereira landed a few impactful strikes, it was Ankalaev who controlled the pace.

Ankalaev’s unanimous decision victory earned him his third straight win and extended his unbeaten streak to 14, marking a new era in the division.

Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje Defeats Rafael Fiziev by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

A highly anticipated rematch lived up to the hype as Gaethje and Fiziev delivered an action-packed 15-minute battle.

• Round 1: Fiziev had a strong start, knocking Gaethje to the canvas twice and controlling much of the striking exchanges.
• Round 2: Gaethje started to find his rhythm, landing devastating uppercuts and dictating the pace with his brutal power.
• Round 3: Gaethje maintained his steady pace, while Fiziev couldn’t keep up, allowing the American to secure another decision win.

With this victory, Gaethje further solidified his place in the Top 5, proving his resilience and earning a much-needed rebound after last year’s knockout loss.

Ignacio Bahamondes Defeats Jalin Turner by Submission (Triangle Choke) at 2:29 of Round 1

In a battle between two of the longest fighters in the lightweight division, Bahamondes emerged victorious with a stunning first-round submission.

• After a brief scramble, Bahamondes locked in a triangle choke from the bottom, quickly shifting his angle to secure the tap from Turner.
• This victory marked Bahamondes’ third consecutive win and extended his impressive streak of finishes, solidifying his place in the UFC’s Top 15.

Amanda Lemos Defeats Iasmin Lucindo by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)\

In a battle between two Brazilian strawweights, Amanda Lemos showcased her veteran experience to defeat the rising star, Iasmin Lucindo.

• Rounds 1 & 2: Lemos dominated with her ground game, controlling Lucindo and keeping her on the mat for most of the fight.
• Round 3: Lucindo rallied, becoming more aggressive and taking Lemos down, but the veteran’s poise and experience allowed her to recover and secure the win.

This victory marked an important rebound for Lemos, who remains a top contender in the division.

Mauricio Ruffy Defeats King Green by KO (Spinning Wheel Kick) at 2:07 of Round 1

Mauricio Ruffy kicked off the main card with one of the most spectacular finishes of the night, delivering a spinning wheel kick that knocked King Green out cold.

• Ruffy’s striking skills were on full display as he feinted a lead hook, followed by the knockout blow that left Green unconscious.
• This incredible victory kept Ruffy’s undefeated UFC run intact, earning him a spot among the rising stars in the division.

Prelim Results:

• Joshua Van Defeats Rei Tsuruya by Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
• Brunno Ferreira Defeats Armen Petrosyan by Submission (Armbar) at 4:27 of Round 2
• Carlos Leal Defeats Alex Morono by TKO (Strikes) at 4:16 of Round 1
• Mairon Santos Defeats Francis Marshall by Split Decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)
• Ozzy Diaz Defeats Djorden Santos by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Conclusion: A Night to Remember

UFC 313 delivered on all fronts: shocking finishes, competitive battles, and new champions. From Ankalaev’s crowning as the new light heavyweight champion to Ruffy’s stunning knockout, this event will be remembered for the incredible talent on display and the unpredictable nature of MMA. Fans are already looking forward to potential rematches, as the action-packed night ended with plenty of stories to unfold in the coming months.

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