MMA news: Alex Pereira challenges Magomed Ankalaev to a $200k bet ahead of UFC 313 clash
The stakes couldn’t be higher as Alex Pereira prepares to defend his UFC light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313.
With the Brazilian star facing what many believe to be his toughest test yet, the outcome could have major implications for the division - and beyond.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Niall Togher breaks down the key storylines ahead of this highly anticipated clash.
A champion’s toughest test
The biggest star in MMA today returns this weekend as Pereira prepares to make the fourth defense of his UFC light heavyweight title.
Standing in his way at UFC 313 is Ankalaev - arguably his toughest challenge yet on paper.
Many fans and pundits view Ankalaev as Pereira’s most difficult matchup to date.
The Russian brings a composed and efficient striking style from the southpaw stance, combined with the infamous Dagestani wrestling that proved highly effective against former champion Jan Blachowicz.
A victory for Pereira at 37, against a 32-year-old on a 13-fight unbeaten streak who also possesses elite wrestling - widely considered the Brazilian’s kryptonite - would not only solidify his place among the greatest light heavyweights of all time but also strengthen his claim as one of MMA’s all-time greats.
It would simultaneously silence one of the main criticisms surrounding his legacy.
Critics often argue that Pereira has benefited from favourable matchups on his road to championship success in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.
His list of past opponents - Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland, Jiri Prochazka, Jamahal Hill, and Khalil Rountree Jr - consists of fighters that primarily strike during their fights.
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Upping the stakes?
Pereira and Ankalaev have a long-standing feud, frequently exchanging insults via social media before they were even signed to fight each other.
Most recently, Pereira proposed a challenge to his rival and his manager on his official ‘X’ account when he said:
“Since you are so confident you will win, $200,000 to the winner's charity of choice. Win or lose, this will help those in need. It’s in your hands, Ali Abdelaziz and Magomed Ankalaev.”
As of now, Ankalaev has yet to respond to the challenge laid down by his foe.
Pereira’s last fight at 205?
Ankalaev will be Pereira’s fourth opponent in just 11 months, and with a win, ‘Poatan’ will have effectively cleaned out the 205-pound division.
This could set the stage for a highly anticipated move up to heavyweight in pursuit of a historic third world title across three weight classes.
Pereira has hinted at this possibility before, and with current heavyweight champion Jon Jones expressing interest in the matchup, a superfight between the two could be on the horizon later in 2025.
Adding to the intrigue, Tom Aspinall recently revealed on his YouTube channel that Jones has yet to agree to a fight to unify the UFC heavyweight titles.
This has fueled speculation that Jones may be waiting for the outcome of Pereira’s fight with Ankalaev before deciding on his next opponent.
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