The reigning UFC light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira, is set to face his toughest challenge yet at UFC 313. On March 8, he will defend his title against Magomed Ankalaev at the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada. Ankalaev, an undefeated force since 2018, presents a serious threat to ‘Poatan’ with his well-rounded s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set, leaving many fans questioning whether Pereira can withstand the Russian’s relentless pressure.

Magomed Ankalaev’s Knockouts Go Viral

Recently, an Instagram post by Red Corner MMA showcased Ankalaev’s pre-UFC knockouts, highlighting his devastating ground-and-pound technique. The caption read: “Ankalaev knockouts before the UFC, a master of the ‘Ground & Pound.’” The video revealed his ability to control opponents, drag them to the mat, and unleash brutal strikes from the top position.

While Ankalaev has secured most of his UFC wins via knockout or decision, his wrestling has been somewhat overlooked. However, his past performances indicate he is more than capable of dismantling opponents with relentless takedowns and punishing ground control.

Can Alex Pereira handle Ankalaev’s wrestling?

Alex Pereira has established himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in MMA. His 2024 campaign was nothing short of legendary, as he secured three dominant title defenses, cementing his place as one of the best fighters in the world. However, despite his impressive striking credentials, Pereira has yet to be truly tested by an elite wrestler in the octagon.

Magomed Ankalaev, on the other hand, boasts an 86% takedown defense and superior grappling control, making him a nightmare matchup for Pereira. With Pereira’s takedown defense still relatively untested, Ankalaev’s wrestling-heavy game plan could prove to be the key to his victory.

Fans Sound Off: ‘Pereira Is Cooked’

Following the viral video of Ankalaev’s knockouts, fans took to social media to express their concerns about Pereira’s chances at UFC 313. Some believe the Brazilian is in for a rude awakening, given Ankalaev’s ability to dominate on the ground.

Former double champ Daniel Cormier weighed in on the situation during an episode of ‘The Good Guy/Bad Guy,’ questioning Pereira’s preparation:

“Is Glover just in Australia with him? Is it just him and Plinio [Cruz]? Glover’s the guy, honestly, that should be doing the most work with Alex right now because of [Ankalaev’s] wrestling.”

With doubts about Pereira’s training camp and the potential holes in his grappling defense, many fans have already written him off against the Russian powerhouse.

Ankalaev’s Path to Victory: Ground Control and Relentless Pressure

For many analysts, the path to victory for Ankalaev is clear—take Pereira down, control him, and unleash his signature ground-and-pound. Ankalaev’s ability to dictate where the fight takes place gives him a significant advantage. If he can keep Pereira on his back, he could neutralize the champion’s striking and slowly break him down.

One fan summed it up bluntly:

“It’s not rocket science. Ankalaev should take Alex down.”

However, not everyone is convinced that Ankalaev’s wrestling alone will be enough to secure the belt.

Can Pereira’s Striking Overcome Ankalaev’s Pressure?

While Ankalaev is a well-rounded fighter, some fans question whether his striking is on par with Pereira’s. With a striking accuracy of 52% and 3.64 significant strikes landed per minute, Ankalaev is a formidable opponent on the feet. However, Pereira possesses one of the most feared left hooks in the sport, capable of ending fights in an instant.

One bold claim from a fan suggested Ankalaev’s straight punches might even be more powerful than Pereira’s legendary left hook:

“This guy’s straight punch is more powerful than Pereira’s left hook.”

However, others believe Ankalaev’s movement and stance could be his downfall against a striker of Pereira’s caliber.

Will Leg Kicks Be Pereira’s Secret Weapon?

Some analysts argue that Pereira’s best weapon in this fight will be his devastating leg kicks. Given Ankalaev’s tendency to be flat-footed, Pereira could look to target his lead leg to slow him down and prevent takedowns.

One fan pointed this out:

“Great fighter, but he is too much flat-footed, especially with his lead leg. I think calf kicks will be a huge problem for Ank.”

If Pereira can execute a smart game plan, utilizing distance control and leg kicks to limit Ankalaev’s movement, he could turn the fight in his favor.

Will Pereira’s striking be enough to keep Ankalaev at bay?

Yet he still hasn’t faced an opponent who’s willing to test his grappling defense and ability to defend takedowns. A game plan that could be the key for Magomed Ankalaev to walk away from UFC 313 with the belt wrapped around his waist. And if the latest fan reactions are anything to go by, the MMA sphere is seemingly leaning toward Ankalaev in this matchup.

Can Pereira’s experience in high-stakes fights help him overcome the challenge?

Despite the concerns surrounding his ability to defend against takedowns, Alex Pereira is no stranger to adversity. Having faced elite strikers and knockout artists in both kickboxing and MMA, he has developed an ironclad mindset. Pereira’s experience in championship fights could be his trump card, as he thrives under pressure and has repeatedly showcased his ability to adapt mid-fight.

Moreover, his partnership with former light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira provides him with crucial wrestling insights. Training alongside Teixeira, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, has significantly bolstered Pereira’s grappling s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s. If he can utilize strong takedown defense and force Ankalaev into prolonged striking exchanges, Pereira stands a real chance at retaining his belt. However, the question remains: can he execute this game plan effectively against a relentless grappler like Ankalaev?

The Ultimate Test: Can ‘Poatan’ Keep His Belt?

As UFC 313 approaches, the anticipation continues to build. On one side, there’s Alex Pereira, a dominant champion with lethal striking and a highlight reel full of knockouts. On the other, Magomed Ankalaev, a relentless grappler with knockout power of his own.

With fans divided on the outcome, the big question remains: Can Pereira survive Ankalaev’s pressure and prove his doubters wrong, or is UFC 313 the night that marks the end of his reign?

Let us know your predictions in the comments below! Who do you think will walk away with the light heavyweight title on March 8?