The extremely anticipated UFC 313 foremost occasion between reigning mild heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and prime contender Magomed Ankalaev is about to happen on March 8, 2025, on the T-Cellular Area in Las Vegas. This marks Pereira’s fourth title protection since transferring as much as mild heavyweight, whereas Ankalaev seeks to assert UFC gold after a robust run within the division.
Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev – Odds
The betting traces for this combat have been fairly shut, echoing the aggressive nature of the matchup. Initially, Magomed Ankalaev opened as a slight favourite at round -150, however public betting has since evened the chances. As of now, most sportsbooks checklist each fighters at close to decide’em odds, corresponding to -110 or -112 for every. In January 2025, Pereira was listed as a slight underdog at -112 in comparison with Ankalaev’s -112. By February 2025, the traces had shifted additional to mirror close to parity, with some sportsbooks favoring Ankalaev marginally at -115 whereas others favored Alex Pereira at -110.
UFC Corridor of Famer Daniel Cormier has voiced apprehensions about Pereira’s focus in the course of the important last weeks of coaching camp. Cormier emphasised Alex Pereira’s journey schedule, together with a visit to Australia to nook Sean Strickland at UFC 312 and attending a Drake live performance shortly after. Cormier questioned whether or not these actions, mixed with jet lag and disrupted coaching routines, may hinder Pereira’s readiness for what many contemplate his hardest take a look at up to now. He harassed that Pereira must be prioritizing preparation.
Former middleweight champion Michael Bisping echoed comparable sentiments, emphasizing that Pereira’s journey and commitments would possibly detract from his capacity to totally put together for Ankalaev. Each legends famous that Ankalaev has been intensely centered and coaching in Las Vegas, doubtlessly giving him an edge in preparation.
Followers and analysts have famous the weird variety of “curses” related to him heading into the combat. These so-called curses have turn out to be a lighthearted but extensively mentioned matter. Pereira is reportedly linked to the notorious Drake Curse, the place athletes or groups supported by the rapper typically lose their occasions. ‘Poatan’ visited Drake in a live performance just lately. Pereira’s recognition as Fighter of the Yr has additionally been labeled a possible jinx, given its historical past. Pereira graces the duvet of the most recent UFC online game, which some followers imagine may deliver misfortune, as earlier cowl athletes have struggled of their careers shortly after.
Identified for his elite putting and knockout energy, Alex Pereira has efficiently defended his title a number of instances with devastating finishes. Nonetheless, his grappling stays a priority, as he has traditionally struggled towards wrestlers. His putting is amongst one of the best in MMA historical past however his grappling capacity is basically unknown.
Magomed Ankalaev is a flexible fighter with a robust wrestling base, Ankalaev excels at controlling opponents on the mat or on the toes. His putting is efficient however not as explosive as Pereira’s, which may pose a problem in exchanges.
UFC 313 can be a pivotal second for each males. Alex Pereira’s elite putting faces Ankalaev’s well-rounded skillset and dominant wrestling. Whereas Pereira is coming off a stellar 2024 with three title defenses, considerations have arisen over his preparation on account of intensive journey and exterior distractions. That is what many contemplate his hardest problem but.
