The countdown to UFC 313 is officially underway, and the excitement among fight fans is palpable. Held at the electrifying T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 8, this event promises heart-pounding moments and high-stakes action. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, UFC 313 is shaping up to be a must-watch.
(USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect / Reuters)
From the thrilling light heavyweight main event between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev to other intriguing matchups on the card, this blog will break down everything you need to know. Plus, we’ve included some fun polls and trivia to keep the action going beyond the Octagon.
Key Details About UFC 313
Date: Saturday, March 8
Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV
Start Times:
- Early Prelims – 6 p.m. ET (UFC Fight Pass, ESPN+, Disney+)
- Prelims – 8 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN News, ESPN+, Disney+)
- Main Card – 10 p.m. ET (ESPN+ PPV)
Make sure your schedule is cleared and snacks are ready—this will be a fight night to remember.
The Main Event: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev
The spotlight will shine brightest on the light heavyweight showdown between Alex Pereira (12-2 MMA, 9-1 UFC) and Magomed Ankalaev (20-1-1 MMA, 11-1-1 UFC). Pereira, known for his lethal striking, brings an impressive kickboxing career that transitioned seamlessly into MMA glory. Ankalaev, on the other hand, is a well-rounded fighter with a deadly ground game matched by powerful striking.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the winner will leave the Octagon with the prestigious light heavyweight title.
A Charitable Bet
Adding an extra layer of intrigue to the bout, Pereira and Ankalaev have agreed to a $200,000 charitable bet. Pereira initiated the wager, while Ankalaev, a devout Muslim, responded with a heartfelt message explaining the importance of charity in his faith. Win or lose, this gesture displays the sportsmanship and character these fighters bring to the sport.
Poll: Who do you think wins the main event—Pereira or Ankalaev?
If you’re still undecided, here’s a quick breakdown of their fight styles and strengths to help you make your prediction.
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Co-Main Event and Other Must-Watch Fights
While the headliner has fans buzzing, don’t overlook the rest of the UFC 313 main card, packed with electrifying matchups.
Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev
Two of the UFC’s most exciting strikers square off in the co-main event. Expect a war when Justin Gaethje, known for his relentless pace and devastating leg kicks, meets Rafael Fiziev, whose crisp Muay Thai technique makes him one of the division’s rising stars. This has Fight of the Night written all over it.
Prediction Contest: Pick the round and method of victory for Gaethje vs. Fiziev.
Jalin Turner vs. Ignacio Bahamondes
With their versatile striking and finishing abilities, Turner and Bahamondes promise a chess match that could end with fireworks.
Amanda Lemos vs. Iasmin Lucindo
If tactical brilliance is your thing, the matchup between Lemos and Lucindo will deliver. Both are looking to make a statement in their division.
King Green vs. Mauricio Ruffy
King Green brings his creative striking to face off with heavy hitter Mauricio Ruffy. Don’t blink; this could end in an instant.
Prelims and Early Prelims
The excitement doesn’t stop with the main card. Here’s a quick look at the highlights from the prelims and early prelims lineup.
Prelims (8 p.m. ET)
- Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev
- Joshua Van vs. Rei Tsuruya
- Alex Morono vs. Carlos Leal Petrosyan
Early Prelims (6 p.m. ET)
- Mairon Santos vs. Francis Marshall
- Djorden Santos vs. Ozzy Diaz
These bouts feature a mix of veteran talents and up-and-coming prospects, continuing UFC’s tradition of showcasing exceptional athletes at every level.
Fighter Backstories That Inspire
Beyond their fighting skills, many UFC 313 athletes have stories that inspire. For example, Ankalaev grew up in Dagestan, training in combat sports from an early age. His determination helped him overcome losses early in his career to become a dominant force in his division.
Pereira, meanwhile, had humble beginnings before becoming a decorated athlete in two sports. He’s faced personal challenges outside of the cage, which have only deepened his hunger for greatness.
Which fighter’s backstory resonates most with you?
What the Experts Say
We turned to some of the biggest names in MMA for their thoughts on UFC 313’s main event.
- Joe Rogan: “Pereira’s striking is unmatched, but Ankalaev’s ground game could neutralize that.”
- Daniel Cormier: “If Ankalaev can close the distance and avoid taking too many shots, this is his fight to lose.”
- Ariel Helwani: “This could easily be fight of the year—don’t miss it.”
Interactive Fun for UFC 313
Make the most out of your UFC 313 experience with these interactive elements:
- Trivia Challenge: How much do you know about UFC history? Take our quiz and find out!
- Rate the Card: Share your excitement level (1-10) for each fight on the card.
- Fan Poll: Which fight on the card are you most excited about?
- Open Discussion: What are your thoughts on the charitable bet between Pereira and Ankalaev?
Gear Up for UFC 313
With such an action-packed card, UFC 313 promises to be one of the standout events of the year. Whether you’re rooting for Pereira, Ankalaev, or have your eyes on another matchup, there’s no shortage of excitement to go around.
Get your predictions in, prepare for edge-of-your-seat action, and tune in on March 8.
Which fight are you looking forward to the most? Comment below and join the discussion!