The Light on Action
In the main event of UFC 313 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, Magomed Ankalaev secured the light heavyweight championship with a unanimous decision win over Alex Pereira. However, the bout was notable for its lack of dynamic action, drawing criticism from both fans and fellow fighters. While Pereira is known for his aggressive and explosive striking, the fight played out quite differently. Ankalaev, speaking at the post-fight press conference through a Russian translator, defended his methodical approach, emphasizing that Pereira’s reluctance to engage was the primary reason for the fight’s more subdued nature.
Ankalaev’s Perspective
Ankalaev claimed that he was confident in his performance and strategy throughout the fight. The scores in his favor, 48-47 and 49-46, reflected his consistent pressure and control. Despite some rounds appearing to be close or even in Pereira’s favor, Ankalaev maintained that his aggressive forward movement and wrestling tactics, even though he failed to secure any takedowns, were key to his victory. "I was confident," he said. "I kept on moving forward, I kept pressuring him, and he kept on running away from me. For 20 minutes, this guy was running away from me. Then I heard at the end of the fight he was saying that he wasn’t sure why the victory was given to me. Who’s supposed to be given the victory? I’ve been pressuring him the entire time, he was running for 20 minutes, and then he’s wondering who’s supposed to get the victory?"
The Strategy and Execution
The pre-fight narrative suggested that Ankalaev would use his wrestling skills to counter Pereira’s renowned striking. However, Ankalaev’s strategy evolved on the spot, adapting to Pereira’s defensive tactics. "He was considered to be the best striker in the division on the way to this fight," Ankalaev explained. "That’s what everybody was talking about, the narrative was that he’s the best. You saw what kind of best striker he was in the fight. You saw how well we did against the striking and how our striking was working. We didn’t have to rely on the wrestling because we were confident in our striking. We were trying to get him to go forward the entire time, that’s what we were baiting, that’s what we were trying to push, and he never walked forward."
Critics and Fans
The fight’s low-key nature was a stark contrast to the highly entertaining bouts Pereira had in his previous title fights. This discrepancy led many to voice their disappointment. Some fighters and fans felt that the fight lacked the excitement and engagement they had hoped for, particularly given Pereira’s reputation for delivering thrilling performances. However, Ankalaev’s approach, while lacking in fireworks, was effective in achieving his ultimate goal: claiming the UFC light heavyweight championship.
A Future Rematch
Ahead of the fight, Ankalaev had stated his willingness to grant Pereira an immediate rematch. His stance remained unchanged after the victory. "Yes, I never pick my opponents, so I’m very much happy and ready for a rematch," Ankalaev declared. "Whenever UFC offers it to us, we’ll see what the date is, we’ll be happy to accept it." UFC President Dana White also suggested that a rematch is likely, given the controversy and the close nature of the fight. Ankalaev’s open-mindedness about facing Pereira again underscores his confidence in his skills and his commitment to defending his newly earned title.
Conclusion
Magomed Ankalaev’s victory over Alex Pereira in the UFC 313 main event was a significant achievement, marking a new chapter in his career. Despite the criticism for the bout’s lack of action, Ankalaev’s strategic approach and consistent pressure demonstrated his tactical acumen and adaptability. Pereira’s defensive stance and reluctance to engage played a crucial role in shaping the fight’s dynamics, leading Ankalaev to secure the win. As he looks forward to potential future challenges, including a possible rematch with Pereira, Ankalaev remains focused and ready to defend his title with the same level of resolve and strategy that brought him success in Las Vegas.
