The UFC is set to make a thrilling comeback to the iconic T-Mobile Arena on March 8, 2025, for its first Las Vegas PPV event of the year. The main event will feature a familiar face as Alex Pereira, the reigning light heavyweight champion, takes center stage. Pereira had an exceptional 2024, achieving remarkable success with three title defenses that showcased his devastating fighting style and solidified his position as an invaluable asset to the promotion.
Throughout his reign, Pereira has faced numerous challengers, but none have been more vocal than Magomed Ankalaev. The Russian contender has persistently called out Pereira, and after navigating through some challenging circumstances, he finally gets his chance to prove himself this Saturday night at UFC 313. Ankalaev enters the octagon with confidence, aiming to establish himself as the best fighter in the world.
The matchup between Pereira and Ankalaev has generated significant excitement among fight fans. While the co-main event has experienced some changes, with Rafael Fiziev stepping in to battle Justin Gaethje, the main event remains one of the most eagerly awaited clashes in recent history. In a recent video on his YouTube channel, former UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski shared his insights on this highly-anticipated fight.
Volkanovski, who is scheduled to return next month for the main event of UFC 314, has analyzed the strategies both fighters might employ. Despite Ankalaev's assertions about his game plan, Volkanovski suspects the challenger will resort to grappling in an attempt to neutralize Pereira's striking power. This has sparked discussions among fans about whether Ankalaev will engage in stand-up exchanges with Pereira, a prospect that carries significant risk.
Many analysts believe Ankalaev may have the advantage in grappling; however, he has made it clear that his intention is to knock out Pereira on March 8. Volkanovski, on the other hand, has strong faith in Pereira's capabilities, predicting a knockout victory for the Brazilian fighter within three rounds. “Alex Pereira’s very dangerous because he puts the pressure on and he can flick stuff out untelegraphed,” Volkanovski explained. “He’s very, very good on the counter, making it a hard fight for Ankalaev to stay on his feet.”
Volkanovski elaborated that while Ankalaev might attempt takedowns, he doubts the Russian will be able to submit Pereira unless he makes a critical error. “I’m gonna go with a favorite on this one, Alex Pereira, KO. I think with him, it’s always a pretty safe bet… I’m thinking maybe second or third round TKO,” he concluded.
Fight fans will soon see Volkanovski back in action as well, following over a year since his loss of the featherweight title to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298 in February. With Topuria moving up a weight class, Volkanovski will now focus on his upcoming fight against the surging Brazilian Diego Lopes for the interim title. This exciting matchup is set to take place at the Kaseya Center in Miami on April 12 as the main event of UFC 314.
While Lopes rides a five-fight win streak, the 36-year-old Volkanovski aims to bounce back from consecutive knockout losses and reclaim his position at the top of the division. The upcoming events promise to deliver thrilling action and pivotal moments for both Pereira and Volkanovski as they strive for championship glory.
