Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev will headline UFC 313 in Las Vegas. Pereira, the UFC light heavyweight champion, defeated all comers in 2024, knocking out Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr. However, his latest challenger, Ankalev, is undefeated in 13 consecutive fights.
What: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalev
Where: T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV
When: Saturday, March 8
Pereira vs. Ankalaev Fight Preview
Who’s going to win on Saturday night? According to the best online betting sites, Pereira is a slight favorite to retain his light heavyweight title. Here’s how the odds shake out:
Alex Pereira was a top contender for 2024 Fighter of the Year after winning all three title defenses by knockout. The two-time champion with Glory Kickboxing is 9-1 overall in UFC, including a flawless 5-0 in the 205-pound division. Seeking his fourth-straight successful title defense, the 37-year-old already has six wins over former UFC champions so no one can accuse the Brazilian of ducking top-flight competition.
Magomed Ankalaev hasn’t lost since tapping out to Paul Craig in the final second of his UFC debut. Since that time, the Dagestan native has reeled off 13 consecutive victories. In 2024, he downed Johnny Walker and Aleksandar Rakic to become the top contender in the light heavyweight division.
Pereira vs. Ankalaev Betting Advice
The top UFC betting sites have Pereira as a slight -120 favorite, while Ankalaev is at EVEN odds to take the championship. The over/under is set at 3.5 rounds with the juice (-135) towards the UNDER.
Many experts believe Ankalaev will be able to neutralize Pereira by taking him down to the canvas. However, that’s easier said than done against a man boasting three consecutive title defenses by knockout.
Pereira by KO, TKO or DQ (+140) is a worthy favorite given he’s issued three knockouts in a row to his opponents. But, if you think his 32-year-old opponent can turn this into a wrestling match, consider Ankalaev by Decision or Technical Decision (+330).
Oddsmakers believe a submission by Pereira (+1600) or Ankalaev (+1000) would be a massive longshot.
Which Round Will the Fight End?
If you’re looking for additional value, you can also pick what round the winning fighter will seal the deal.
In 2024, Alex Pereira knocked out Khalil Rountree Jr. in the 4th round, downed Jiri Prochazka in the 2nd, and issued a 1st round KO of Jamahal Hill. If you think the Brazilian light heavyweight champion believes variety is the spice of life, consider a Pereira 3rd round win (+800) or a Pereira 5th round victory (+1400).
How To Bet On Pereira vs Ankalaev
Need a trusted place to get your bets in on Pereira vs. Ankalaev? Hit one of the bookmakers listed below. All these sites have bettor-friendly Las Vegas odds for all the fights on the UFC 313 card so you’re not leaving money on the table!