Israel Adesanya’s Prediction for UFC 313
Israel Adesanya, the former UFC middleweight champion, is placing his bets on Alex Pereira for the main event of UFC 313. On Saturday, Pereira will defend his light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev, a formidable opponent with a strong reputation. Pereira has been unstoppable since moving up to 205 pounds, securing five consecutive wins, including two successful title defenses in 2024. However, Ankalaev, often billed as the future champion of the division, presents Pereira with his toughest challenge yet. Adesanya, who has faced Pereira four times in both kickboxing and MMA, believes Pereira has several advantages, particularly in his leg kicks and evolving ground game.
The Role of Leg Kicks
“Leg kicks. Let’s just address the f*cking elephant in the room,” Adesanya said on his YouTube channel. “That’s going to be a significant factor in this fight. Pereira might have to employ his wrestling skills, but he can’t just stand and trade blows. Ego plays a role in fight talk, but the reality is, the fight might not remain standing. Ankalaev is likely to try and take Pereira down, and Pereira will have to adapt. One of Pereira’s strengths is his ability to evolve, and he has shown significant improvement in his jiu-jitsu. Although he hasn’t relied heavily on it in fights, Pereira has been rolling with top-notch opponents and has demonstrated a much smoother ground flow.”
Pereira’s Ground Game Evolution
Adesanya, with his extensive experience against Pereira, emphasizes the importance of Pereira’s developing ground game. “Alex Pereira is a black belt in jiu-jitsu now, and he’s exponentially getting better. He’s been rolling with some of the best and it shows. He flows better on the ground and can defend himself effectively if the fight goes there. Ankalaev will need to be cautious, as Pereira has multiple ways to win.”
Ankalaev’s Counter Strategies
Ankalaev, known for his speed and counterpunching ability, will have his moments. “Ankalaev is going to shoot because he’s going to get tagged on the legs, and he could get clocked in the face,” Adesanya noted. “Magomed’s best stance might be southpaw, as it allows him to use his effective straight shots. However, Pereira’s leg kicks will be a continuous threat. If Pereira can land a few solid leg kicks and follow up with a left hook, it could be a dangerous night for Ankalaev.”
Adesanya’s Confidence in Pereira
Despite Ankalaev’s speed and counters, Adesanya remains confident in Pereira’s ability to prevail. “Pereira is on a tear right now. He has the momentum, the frame, and the power. When you have that kind of skill set, you trust in it. I’m going to go with Pereira because of his current form. Leg kicks, leg kicks, leg kicks, and then a left hook. I predict Pereira will knock out Ankalaev in the fourth or fifth round.”
The Broader Landscape of UFC 313
The buildup to UFC 313 has been intense, with both fighters and the UFC promoting the event vigorously. Dana White, the UFC president, and Turki Alalshikh are teaming up for a new boxing venture, adding to the excitement around combat sports. White has also teased a potential summer comeback for Jon Jones, possibly including a fight with Tom Aspinall. These developments highlight the dynamic and expanding landscape of MMA and boxing.
Final Thoughts and Predictions
MMA fans are eagerly awaiting the main event, and many share Adesanya’s belief that Pereira will emerge victorious. The fight promises to be a showcase of elite skills and strategic finesse. Whether it’s Pereira’s relentless leg kicks or Ankalaev’s swift counters, Saturday’s main event is shaping up to be an instant classic. The MMA community is abuzz with anticipation, and the stage is set for a night of unforgettable action at UFC 313.
