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Magomed Ankalaev's Victory Over Alex Pereira: A Debate Over UFC Scoring Criteria
The MMA world has been buzzing ever since Magomed Ankalaev defeated Alex Pereira in their highly anticipated clash, and the debate over how the fight was scored is only intensifying. Fans and analysts are divided, with many questioning whether the UFC's scoring system truly reflects what happens inside the Octagon. Was this victory for Ankalaev truly deserved? Or is the UFC’s current ruleset flawed in how it rewards control and cage pressure over striking?
The Fight Breakdown
Ankalaev's victory came down to one clear factor: control. Throughout the fight, Ankalaev demonstrated an impressive level of control, consistently pressuring Pereira against the cage. This grappling-heavy approach, which is often a determining factor in UFC scoring, led to Ankalaev winning key rounds despite Pereira’s superior striking exchanges. It wasn’t just the wrestling, though. Ankalaev didn’t just edge out Pereira in the clinch—he also held his own in the striking exchanges against one of the most dangerous strikers in the division.
For those questioning the scoring system, the key point of contention lies in whether or not cage control should weigh as heavily as striking. In many championship bouts, we see the wrestling-heavy fighters come out on top, even if they lost the majority of the striking exchanges. This fight was no different. While Pereira had moments of brilliance with his striking, it was Ankalaev's relentless pressure and control that won him the rounds in the eyes of the judges.
Control vs. Striking: Should the Criteria Shift?
The UFC scoring system often rewards fighters who control their opponents on the cage or score takedowns, even if they don’t land the most strikes. Many argue that this method of judging doesn’t always reflect the true nature of a fight. Should fighters be judged primarily on how much time they spend dictating position, or should it be about who lands the most impactful strikes and has the most decisive moments in the fight?
Ankalaev’s win is a prime example of this gray area in the scoring system. It was a display of controlling the tempo and position, not necessarily dominance in the striking. To some, this is a valid strategy—one that has won numerous fighters championships in the past. To others, it’s an antiquated system that doesn’t give credit to fighters who are dominant in stand-up and who avoid being grounded or pressured into a cage control situation.
The Immediate Rematch: A Must for Pereira
Despite the controversial result, Alex Pereira remains one of the most dangerous men in the UFC. His striking ability is world-class, and he’s proven time and again that he can knock out opponents with ease. But the problem for Pereira is clear: his grappling and wrestling defense need major improvement. Magomed Ankalaev capitalized on these weaknesses and imposed his will with dominant wrestling and cage control.
A rematch with Ankalaev is absolutely warranted. However, Pereira must go back to the drawing board. Without a strong camp focused on countering Dagestani-style grappling and improving his ability to get back to his feet when pressed against the cage, the next encounter could play out just like the first. Ankalaev showed that, while Pereira can be an absolute menace on the feet, once he’s neutralized and controlled, the fight becomes one-sided.
Conclusion: A Fight That Shaped Future Storylines
Magomed Ankalaev’s victory over Alex Pereira may have sparked controversy, but it also sheds light on key aspects of the UFC scoring system. For Pereira, the loss provides a valuable lesson in the areas of wrestling and defensive grappling. If he can evolve in these areas, a rematch could look very different. But without addressing these holes in his game, he risks facing another dominant performance from a fighter like Ankalaev.
As the debate over scoring continues, one thing remains clear: the UFC is filled with fighters who have evolved not just in striking but in all aspects of mixed martial arts. The next chapter in this story could be a rematch that changes the narrative for both fighters.
Do you agree with the way the fight was scored? Should control be prioritized over striking? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! FIGHT.TV is here for it!