The UFC recently crowned a new light heavyweight champion, Magomed Ankalaev, who claimed the title with a unanimous decision victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 313. Despite Ankalaev’s impressive performance, the fight raised several questions about the fighters and the event itself. Here are some of the main highlights from the pay-per-view event held in Las Vegas.
1. Pereira’s hesitancy and missed opportunities:
Pereira seemed to lack urgency during the fight, leading to missed opportunities and ultimately costing him the title. His hesitation and failure to capitalize on key moments allowed Ankalaev to control the fight and secure the victory. Pereira will need to analyze his performance and make necessary adjustments to bounce back from this loss.
2. Ankalaev’s unexpected win:
Ankalaev’s victory was surprising, especially considering his inability to execute any takedowns throughout the fight. Despite this setback, Ankalaev managed to outperform Pereira in striking exchanges and neutralize his opponent’s strengths. While the win may not have been flashy, it showcased Ankalaev’s resilience and determination to claim the title.
3. Gaethje defies expectations:
Justin Gaethje continues to defy expectations, delivering a strong performance in his unanimous decision victory over Rafael Fiziev. Despite his age and previous losses, Gaethje remains a formidable lightweight contender, showcasing his skills and endurance in each fight. Fans can expect more exciting matchups from Gaethje in the future.
4. Emerging talent in the lightweight division:
Young fighters like Mauricio Ruffy and Ignacio Bahamondes made a strong impression on the undercard, displaying their potential for future success in the talent-rich lightweight division. As they continue to develop their skills and face tougher opponents, these rising stars are poised to make a significant impact in the sport.
5. Robbie Lawler’s emotional Hall of Fame induction:
During the event, Robbie Lawler was moved to tears as he was honored for his upcoming induction into the UFC Hall of Fame. Lawler’s career has been marked by resilience, evolution, and a relentless fighting spirit. His journey serves as a reminder that fighters can always improve and evolve, even after facing setbacks. Lawler’s induction is a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the sport.
Overall, UFC 313 showcased a mix of established talent, emerging stars, and emotional moments, making it a memorable event for fans and fighters alike.