Accepting the Challenge: Magomed Ankalaev’s Title Fight Against Alex Pereira
Magomed Ankalaev, a top contender in the UFC light heavyweight division, faced a significant decision when he accepted a title fight against Alex Pereira on March 8, 2025, at UFC 313. The crucial date falls one week into Ramadan, a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide, which requires fasting from dawn until sunset. While the fasting rules didn’t impact his training or preparation, Ankalaev has had to make some adjustments to ensure he is in peak condition for the fight. "If we’re talking about the training or the training camp, the preparation, that was done before Ramadan. So there was no issues with that," Ankalaev explained during the UFC 313 media day. "The only thing that we had to change is because the week of the fight is Ramadan, what I had to do was I had to break a couple of fasting sessions because I have to drink a lot of water in order for me to be able to make the weight. Other than that, everything is the same."
Dealing with Distractions: Pereira’s Commentary on Ramadan
Ankalaev has not been immune to distractions, particularly from his opponent, Alex Pereira. Pereira has been vocal about the potential challenges Ankalaev might face due to his observance of Ramadan. While Pereira’s comments suggest he has been tracking Ankalaev’s food deliveries and fasting habits, Ankalaev is confident that these distractions are more about Pereira’s state of mind than his own. "He’s obviously really worried about me and what I’m doing. He seems to be nervous. He’s following all these things. Like what can I say? I had to break the fast a couple of times because there’s something I need to do in order to make the weight and in order to be prepared. He seems to be way too concerned with that," Ankalaev noted. Despite the prodding, Ankalaev maintains that he has remained focused on his training and preparation, unbowed by the external noise.
Charity and Controversy: Pereira’s Wager
In a twist that added another layer to the pre-fight buildup, Pereira proposed a high-stakes wager. He suggested that the loser of the fight pay $200,000 to a charity chosen by the winner. Pereira’s tweet, directed at Ankalaev and his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, was intended to heighten the stakes and perhaps rattle Ankalaev’s nerves. However, Ankalaev, adhering to his religious principles, was quick to point out that Muslims are prohibited from gambling. "We were really clear about it online, we said as Muslims we cannot do bets. That’s not something that we support or that we look to do," he stated. Instead, Ankalaev proposed a more straightforward and meaningful approach: direct charity donations. "However, if he wants to do something, any kind of charity or anything that he wants to do, we have the means to do it and I’d be happy to partake in that," he added, emphasizing his commitment to charity without violating his religious beliefs.
Pereira’s Diverse Activities: A Point of Concern for Ankalaev
Ankalaev’s concerns about Pereira’s focus seem to stem from the champion’s schedule in the weeks leading up to the fight. Pereira has been quite active, traveling to Australia to corner Sean Strickland in his fight against Dricus du Plessis, conducting other business, and spending a few nights out. These activities have raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about Pereira’s commitment to his training. Ankalaev, however, insists that his comments were not meant to be personal attacks. "We weren’t trying to make it personal or anything. We were just saying maybe we were worried about him that he’s kind of all over the place, all these different UFC events and stuff like that," he clarified. Ankalaev’s genuine concern for his opponent’s preparation reflects a level of sportsmanship and respect, even amidst the competitive tension.
The Power of Focus: Ankalaev’s Training Regimen
Despite the external distractions and the break in his fasting routine, Ankalaev has maintained a rigorous and disciplined training regimen. His team has been instrumental in ensuring that he remains hydrated and in the best possible condition to face Pereira. "Maybe he should have taken it as us being worried about him spending time doing something rather than being prepared for the fight. Whichever way he took it, it’s up to him. It’s not going to help him or make it worse," Ankalaev said, highlighting the importance of mental and physical preparation. His approach emphasizes the balance between adhering to his faith and the demands of professional combat sports, demonstrating a level of dedication and adaptability that is commendable.
Looking Ahead: The Road to UFC 313
As the fight approaches, both fighters are increasingly focused on the task at hand. Ankalaev, known for his strategic and technical prowess, is confident in his abilities and has a clear plan to dethrone the champion. "The fight is the most important thing for me. I’ve prepared for this moment, and I’m ready to give it my all," he stated. Pereira, on the other hand, seems to be using every tactic, from social media jabs to proposed wagers, to keep his opponent off balance. Regardless of the pre-fight narrative, the real test will come inside the octagon, where skills and preparation will ultimately determine the outcome. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipation what promises to be an epic battle between two of the most talented light heavyweights in the sport.
