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Breaking Down UFC 313: What Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev Must Do to Secure Victory
As the UFC gears up for another thrilling event, all eyes are on UFC 313, where Alex Pereira will defend his Light Heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev. Pereira has solidified his reputation as one of the most dangerous strikers in UFC history, while Ankalaev is a well-rounded fighter with a mix of devastating striking and relentless grappling. Let’s break down what each fighter needs to do to come out on top.
What Alex Pereira Must Do to Beat Magomed Ankalaev
Keep the Fight StandingPereira’s bread and butter is his striking game. His precise kickboxing, paired with his terrifying power, has toppled some of the best fighters in the world. Against Ankalaev, Pereira must utilize his jab, leg kicks, and straight punches to maintain distance and dictate the pace of the fight. Keeping the fight in the center of the Octagon will be critical to avoid Ankalaev’s clinch and takedown attempts.
Neutralize Ankalaev’s TakedownsWhile Pereira’s takedown defense has improved since transitioning to MMA, Ankalaev’s wrestling presents a significant threat. Pereira will need to stay light on his feet and use lateral movement to avoid being pinned against the cage. In the clinch, framing and underhooks will be key to nullifying Ankalaev’s grappling.
Capitalize on OpeningsAnkalaev is methodical in his approach, but he has moments of hesitation when closing the distance. Pereira should look to exploit these moments with counterstrikes, particularly with his lethal left hook or knees up the middle. Timing will be everything for Pereira, as one well-placed strike could end the fight instantly.
Stay Patient but AggressiveAnkalaev is a fighter who thrives on disrupting his opponent’s rhythm. Pereira needs to stay composed and avoid overextending, which could leave him vulnerable to takedowns. At the same time, he must pressure Ankalaev enough to force him into uncomfortable exchanges.
What Magomed Ankalaev Must Do to Beat Alex Pereira
Blend Striking with GrapplingAnkalaev has the advantage in wrestling and grappling, but he can’t rely solely on those skills against a striker of Pereira’s caliber. Instead, he must mix in strikes to set up takedowns. Using feints and level changes, Ankalaev can keep Pereira guessing and create opportunities to take the fight to the ground.
Dominate in Top PositionIf Ankalaev secures a takedown, he must capitalize on it by maintaining control and working for damage or submissions. Pereira has improved his ground game, but Ankalaev’s smothering top control and ground-and-pound could wear him down over five rounds.
Pressure Without RecklessnessAnkalaev must close the distance without running into Pereira’s strikes. Controlled forward pressure, combined with head movement and angles, can help him nullify Pereira’s reach and minimize damage. The clinch will also play a critical role, where Ankalaev can dirty box and look for trips or double-leg takedowns.
Drag the Fight into Deep WatersWhile Pereira is dangerous early, Ankalaev has shown he can keep a steady pace for five rounds. If Ankalaev can survive the initial onslaught, his chances increase significantly. A grinding, high-pressure fight will favor the Russian as Pereira’s output and explosiveness fade.
The X-Factor: Game Plans and Execution
Both fighters have the tools to win, but this bout may come down to who executes their game plan more effectively. For Pereira, maintaining distance and landing the knockout blow are his clearest paths to victory. For Ankalaev, dragging the champion into a grueling battle and exploiting his weaknesses on the ground will be critical.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for UFC 313, as Pereira looks to continue his dominance and Ankalaev aims to achieve his long-awaited championship glory. This clash of styles promises to be a tactical masterpiece, and fans can expect nothing less than fireworks when these two warriors step into the Octagon.
Who do you think will come out on top? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!
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