UFC 313, held on March 8, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, was an unforgettable night in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). The event featured major matchups, with the highly anticipated main event between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira delivering a thrilling spectacle that has had a profound impact on the UFC Light Heavyweight rankings. The undercard also didn’t disappoint, with standout performances from Justin Gaethje, Ignacio Bahamondes, and Mauricio Ruffy. This article will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the key fights, explain what this means for the future of the fighters, and explore how UFC 313 shifts the landscape of the sport.
UFC 313 Main Card Breakdown
| Key Event | Fighter(s) Involved | Outcome | Impact on UFC Rankings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Event: Ankalaev vs Pereira | Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira | Ankalaev wins by unanimous decision | Major shakeup in light heavyweight rankings, Ankalaev likely to climb to top spot |
| Co-Main Event: Gaethje vs Fiziev | Justin Gaethje vs Rafael Fiziev | Gaethje wins by unanimous decision | Gaethje strengthens position for lightweight title fight |
| Exciting Submission: Bahamondes vs Turner | Ignacio Bahamondes vs Jalin Turner | Bahamondes wins via triangle choke | Boosts Bahamondes’ ranking in lightweight |
| Knockout of the Night: Ruffy vs Green | Mauricio Ruffy vs Bobby Green | Ruffy wins by spinning wheel kick | Ruffy enters lightweight title conversation |
UFC 313 was a night to remember, showcasing some of the best talents in the world of MMA. Magomed Ankalaev’s victory in the main event has significantly impacted the light heavyweight rankings, while Justin Gaethje’s win reaffirms his status as one of the top contenders in the lightweight division. With impressive performances from Ignacio Bahamondes and Mauricio Ruffy, it’s clear that new stars are rising, and the future of the UFC is bright.
Fans are now looking forward to what’s next for these fighters. Ankalaev and Gaethje could soon be fighting for even bigger titles, and newcomers like Bahamondes and Ruffy are primed to make waves in their divisions. One thing is certain: UFC 313 has set the stage for even more action-packed events ahead.
The Main Event: Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira – A Fight for the Ages
The main event at UFC 313 featured Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira, two top-ranked fighters vying for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Pereira, coming off victories in multiple divisions, including a successful run in the middleweight category, looked to add another belt to his collection. Ankalaev, known for his combination of striking and grappling, had been a consistent threat in the 205-pound division.
This fight was a perfect clash of styles. Pereira, known for his powerful striking and devastating knockout ability, came out strong with his fast kicks and aggressive pace. However, Ankalaev was prepared, neutralizing Pereira’s attacks by consistently closing the distance and controlling the tempo of the fight with his wrestling and clinching game.
After five rounds, Ankalaev won by unanimous decision, with scores of 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47. The win handed Ankalaev the title, making him the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, while sending Pereira back to the drawing board in his quest for another championship.
Fighter Profile: Magomed Ankalaev
Ankalaev is a Dagestani-born fighter with an undefeated record in the UFC prior to this bout. Known for his versatile fighting style that blends Muay Thai striking with elite-level grappling, Ankalaev’s win at UFC 313 cements his place as one of the top talents in the light heavyweight division. His rise in the rankings has been impressive, and after his victory, he could very well be the next contender for a title defense against the legendary Jon Jones.
What’s Next for Ankalaev?
With this win, Ankalaev now holds the Light Heavyweight Championship and is expected to face either Jon Jones or another contender for a title defense. Fans are eager to see how he fares against Jones, who has held the division’s top spot for years.
The Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs Rafael Fiziev – Setting Up a Title Shot
In the co-main event, Justin Gaethje faced Rafael Fiziev, both fighters known for their aggressive striking styles. Gaethje’s reputation as a “fan favorite” for his explosive fights was on the line, while Fiziev, a technical striker, was looking to cement his place as a future UFC Lightweight Champion.
The three-round contest was a banger, with both fighters exchanging heavy shots from start to finish. Fiziev’s technical striking was on display, but Gaethje’s ability to absorb punishment and return fire with more force proved to be the deciding factor. Ultimately, Gaethje won by unanimous decision with all three judges scoring the fight 29-28 in his favor.
Fighter Profile: Justin Gaethje
Known for his “never back down” attitude, Gaethje has been one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC for years. With knockout power in both hands, Gaethje is always a threat in the lightweight division. His win at UFC 313 re-establishes him as a top contender and positions him for a future title fight against the reigning champion Islam Makhachev.
What’s Next for Gaethje?
Gaethje’s win sets him up for a title fight with Makhachev, the current UFC Lightweight Champion. This could be one of the most thrilling title matchups, given Gaethje’s striking and Makhachev’s grappling expertise.
Rising Stars: Ignacio Bahamondes and Mauricio Ruffy
Two fighters who made a significant impact at UFC 313 were Ignacio Bahamondes and Mauricio Ruffy. Bahamondes, known for his flashy techniques and versatile skills, faced Jalin Turner in a lightweight matchup that could elevate the winner in the rankings.
Bahamondes didn’t disappoint, securing a triangle choke submission in the first round to defeat Turner. This dominant performance will likely boost Bahamondes’ ranking in the lightweight division, opening up new opportunities for him.
Meanwhile, Mauricio Ruffy, known for his dynamic striking, earned the Knockout of the Night bonus after landing a spinning wheel kick knockout against Bobby Green. This devastating KO made a statement about Ruffy’s potential in the division.
Impact on UFC Rankings and Future Matchups
The results of UFC 313 have certainly shaken up the rankings, particularly in the light heavyweight and lightweight divisions. Ankalaev’s victory over Pereira has elevated him to the top, while Gaethje’s win solidifies his place as a leading contender for the lightweight title. Bahamondes and Ruffy, meanwhile, have entered the conversation as rising stars to watch.
These changes are not just significant for the fighters involved, but for the UFC’s global appeal. UFC 313’s impressive performances will likely draw in new fans, continue to elevate the status of the fighters, and create new opportunities for emerging stars.
FAQs On UFC 313 Main Card Breakdown
Q: Who won the UFC 313 main event?
A: Magomed Ankalaev defeated Alex Pereira by unanimous decision to become the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.
Q: What was the co-main event of UFC 313?
A: The co-main event featured Justin Gaethje vs Rafael Fiziev, with Gaethje winning by unanimous decision.
Q: How did Mauricio Ruffy win his fight?
A: Mauricio Ruffy won by a stunning spinning wheel kick knockout in the first round against Bobby Green.
Q: What does Ankalaev’s win mean for the light heavyweight division?
A: Ankalaev’s win places him at the top of the light heavyweight division and sets him up for a potential fight with Jon Jones for the title.
