Title Fight at UFC 313: Pereira vs. Ankalaev
The Nevada Athletic Commission has officially assigned the referee and judges for the highly anticipated main event at UFC 313, where light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira will defend his title against Magomed Ankalaev. The commission approved the assignments during a monthly meeting on Wednesday, setting the stage for the March 8 fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Officiating Team Announced
Marc Goddard, a seasoned and respected figure in the world of MMA, has been chosen to referee the main event. Goddard’s experience and reputation for fairness and precision make him an excellent choice for such a high-stakes bout. Joining him are judges Mike Bell, Derek Cleary, and Sal D’Amato, who will be responsible for scoring the five-round championship fight. These officials bring a wealth of knowledge and impartiality to the table, ensuring that the bout will be evaluated fairly and accurately.
Ankalaev’s Journey to the Title
For Magomed Ankalaev, this is a significant opportunity to capture the UFC light heavyweight championship for the first time. This will be his second attempt at the title, following a split draw with Jan Blachowicz in 2022. Since then, Ankalaev has been on a formidable run, going 2-0 with one no-contest. His victories include a knockout over Johnny Walker and a decision win against Aleksandar Rakic in his most recent bout this past October. Ankalaev’s resilience and skill have earned him another shot at the title, and he is determined to make the most of this opportunity.
Pereira’s Rise to Stardom
Alex Pereira’s journey to becoming one of the most bankable stars in the UFC has been nothing short of remarkable. After previously holding the middleweight title, Pereira transitioned to the light heavyweight division and has since racked up five consecutive wins. His 2024 campaign was particularly memorable, with three title fights that resulted in impressive knockouts over Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree. Pereira’s dominant performances have solidified his status as one of the top fighters in the division, and he will look to add another chapter to his legacy when he faces Ankalaev on March 8.
A Night of High Stakes
The UFC 313 main event is shaping up to be a clash of titans, pitting two of the most dynamic and skilled fighters in the light heavyweight division against each other. For Pereira, a victory would mark his fourth consecutive title defense, further cementing his place at the top of the sport. For Ankalaev, it’s an opportunity to prove that he belongs among the elite and to bring home the coveted championship belt. The fight is sure to be a spectacle, with both fighters bringing their A-game to the T-Mobile Arena.
Preparing for the Event
As the fight week approaches, the rest of the referee and judging assignments will be determined. Fans can expect a meticulously organized and fair event, with the officiating team ensuring that the bout is conducted with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will once again be the backdrop for a night of thrilling action, as the world of MMA converges to witness this historic title fight between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev.
