UFC 313: Pereira vs Ankalaev - A Clash for the Light Heavyweight Title

Fight enthusiasts and bettors alike are on the edge of their seats as UFC 313 descends upon the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 8-9, 2025. This thrilling event features a marquee main event that promises fireworks: Alex Pereira, the reigning Light Heavyweight Champion, faces off against #1 contender Magomed Ankalaev in a high-stakes bout that MMA fans won't want to miss. With the main card kicking off at 03:00 AM UTC, all eyes will be glued to the octagon as these two titans clash for supremacy.

Alex Pereira, hailing from Brazil, brings a record of 12-2-0 with a staggering 10 knockout victories. Known for his devastating kickboxing style, Pereira's striking prowess makes him a formidable opponent. Opposite him stands Russia's Magomed Ankalaev, carrying an impressive 20-1-1 record with 11 knockouts. This MMA expert is noted for his balanced attack and a sturdy defense, boasting a takedown defense of 87%.

The betting odds reflect just how closely matched these fighters are, with Pereira and Ankalaev being almost neck-and-neck in terms of favorability across major sportsbooks. This bout, pivotal not only for its title implications but also for the future direction of the Light Heavyweight division, is an unmissable event for all UFC bettors and fans. Prepare for a battle where every punch, kick, and takedown could determine the night’s victor, and potentially reshape the division's landscape.

Live odds

All the fighter matchups and live odds for Pereira vs Ankalaev can be found on the Pereira vs Ankalaev event page.

UFC 313 Betting Guide: Pereira vs. Ankalaev & Beyond

As the anticipation builds for UFC 313, bettors are gearing up to test their expertise and luck on a card stacked with intriguing matchups. The event, headlined by the Light Heavyweight Title bout between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev, promises not only exhilarating clashes but also potential opportunities for those keen on the betting front.

Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev

In the main event, Alex Pereira, the incumbent champ with a 12-2-0 record, faces Magomed Ankalaev, boasting a 20-1-1 record. Pereira, a Brazilian powerhouse, has been ruthless in the division with his lethal striking ability, achieving 10 of his wins by knockout. Ankalaev, the Russian challenger, comes in with a multi-faceted MMA background, and his ability to defend against takedowns at 87% makes him a well-rounded threat.

Betting Insight: The odds are nearly even, with Pereira slightly edged out as the underdog, hovering around -115 to -120. Ankalaev is marginally favored at -104 to -106 across platforms like BetMGM and FanDuel. This closeness in odds signifies that both fighters have realistic chances of victory. Bettors should consider Pereira’s striking capability against Ankalaev’s grappling defense. This fight might cater more towards prop bets like method of victory due to their capabilities to end fights with KO/TKOs.

Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev

Moving to the co-main event, Justin Gaethje takes on Rafael Fiziev. Gaethje, who is known for his brawling style, comes in with a 26-5-0 record and boasts 20 knockout wins. Fiziev, on the other hand, with a 12-3-0 record, is a technical striker but has lost to Gaethje in a previous encounter.

Betting Insight: Fiziev is favored with odds at around -145 to -155 across BetMGM and Caesars, indicating confidence in his striking precision and defense. Gaethje, with odds floating around +120 to +134, offers value for bettors who believe he could repeat past victories over Fiziev. Given Gaethje's knockout power, this fight also presents opportunities in method-of-victory and round-specific betting.

Jalin Turner vs. Ignacio Bahamondes

In a lightweight showcase, Jalin Turner faces Ignacio Bahamondes. Turner, with a 14-8-0 record, is looking to bounce back after a series of losses. Known for his early finishes, Turner provides substantial threat with his knockouts and submissions. Bahamondes, with a 16-5-0 record, complements the division by being a versatile striker.

Betting Insight: While odds are less publicly exposed, consider Turner's high likelihood of finishing the fight early. His propensity to end fights in the first round makes early-round stoppages or under round totals desirable betting options.

Amanda Lemos vs. Iasmin Lucindo

In the women’s strawweight division, Amanda Lemos squares off against Iasmin Lucindo. Lemos, with a 14-4-1 record, mixes boxing techniques with potent knockout power, whereas Lucindo, 17-5-0, is well-rounded and rides a four-fight win streak.

Betting Insight: Lucindo is favored with odds around -140 to -150. Lemos, the underdog, at around +116 to +125, offers an intriguing prospect for upsets. Consider betting on a decision outcome given both fighters' durability and the weight of their past five-fight histories often going the distance.

King Green vs. Mauricio Ruffy

Lightweight action sees King Green against Mauricio Ruffy. Green, with a seasoned 32-16-1 record, faces the relatively new Mauricio Ruffy with a record of 11-1-0 primarily defined by 10 knockouts.

Betting Insight: Ruffy is the heavy favorite at -500, highlighting expected dominance over Green, who stands at +360 to +380 odds. While Ruffy offers less substantive returns, a bet on an early finish or method victory for him could mitigate low ROI from standard win bets.

Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev

Curtis Blaydes takes on Rizvan Kuniev in the heavyweight preliminary. Blaydes, ranked #5 with a 18-5-0 record, packs experience and knockout power. Nevertheless, Kuniev, though inexperienced at 2-0-0, is capable within the grappling departments.

Betting Insight: Blaydes is strongly favored at -300 to -335, indicating confidence in his ability to secure a decisive win. Kuniev, with odds at +230 to +250, might appeal to those looking for underdog success, but the prediction largely leans towards Blaydes’ resilience and track record.

Joshua Van vs. Rei Tsuruya

In the flyweight bout, #15 ranked Joshua Van faces Rei Tsuruya. Van, 12-2-0, is a strategic fighter with well-rounded skills, while Tsuruya, undefeated at 10-0-0, has a promising trajectory.

Betting Insight: Van is favored at -185 to -200, reflecting faith in his comprehensive fight ability. Tsuruya, an appealing underdog at +154 to +163, simplifies opportunity for those seeing potential in youthful energy and record-based momentum.

Brunno Ferreira vs. Armen Petrosyan

Middleweight contention also brews between Brunno Ferreira and Armen Petrosyan. Ferreira, 12-2-0, melds grappling ability with knockout preference. Petrosyan, 9-4-0, offers a robust striking approach.

Betting Insight: Petrosyan is slightly favored at -150 to -165. Ferreira, however, is close at +125 to +132 odds, suggesting negligible separation in ability, making either path a sensible bet given respective strengths.

Betting Strategy

Fighters to Consider:

• Alex Pereira: Potential for knockout methods presents lucrative value.
• Justin Gaethje: Known for overturn chaos into wins; high-value underdog.
• Iasmin Lucindo: Favored streak suggests continuity; decisions seem likely.
• Curtis Blaydes: Strong favorite with high chances for TKO victory.

Cautionary Betting:

• Mauricio Ruffy: Heavy favorite but ROI diminishes with straightforward win bets.
• Carlos Leal vs. Alex Morono: Extreme odds demonstrate less appeal unless opting for specific outcomes.

Prepping for UFC 313 involves understanding not just who is likely to win, but how they might achieve it. Dive into the intricacies of fighter profiles, track betting shifts, and always consider pairing traditional bets with prop bets to diversify and capitalize on the dynamic nature of each matchup.

Final Thoughts: Fighters to Bet On at UFC 313

As UFC 313 approaches, there are numerous opportunities for bettors to explore and capitalize on. Among the fighters in the spotlight, Alex Pereira stands out as a compelling choice. His powerful striking and knockout ability make him a formidable opponent, capable of turning the tide of the fight with a single punch. Betting on him to win by knockout offers a high-reward opportunity, especially given his history of devastating finishes.

Another fighter to consider is Curtis Blaydes, whose experience and prowess in the heavyweight division give him a significant edge. His ability to finish fights through TKOs and his wrestling acumen make him a solid bet to secure a victory over newcomer Rizvan Kuniev.

In the lightweight bout, Rafael Fiziev, as a technical striker, holds the upper hand against Justin Gaethje. His favorability in the odds showcases confidence in his ability to execute a strategic game plan, making him a wise selection for those seeking a reliable betting choice.

Lastly, Iasmin Lucindo's current winning streak and favorable odds position her as an attractive option, especially for those keen on diversifying their bets across fighter methods and decisions.

Remember to keep an eye on the live odds as they can fluctuate up to fight night. For the latest updates and to refine your betting strategy, visit UFC Bet Companion for comprehensive coverage of UFC 313's Pereira vs. Ankalaev event.