Ankalaev (19-1-1, 1 NC) is ranked No. 1 in the UFC's official light heavyweight rankings. He's undefeated in his last 13 UFC fights and most recently defeated Aleksandar Rakic. Ankalaev previously fought Jan Blachowicz for the vacant light heavyweight title in 2022, which ended in a split draw.

Despite all his posturing, Alex Pereira will in fact next defend his title against Magomed Ankalaev, and it’s official for UFC 313.

Three fights stand out above the rest on Saturday, including the return of ESPN's top pound-for-pound fighter.

Starting with the challenger, Ankalaev is getting his second crack at the light heavyweight title. His first shot came in December 2022 when he fought Jan Blachowicz to a draw. Ankalaev hasn’t lost since 2018 when he was submitted in the final seconds against Paul Craig.

Light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira (12-2) returns to action at UFC 313 on March 8 to face Magomed Ankalaev (19-1) at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena. As confirmed on the UFC 311 broadcast, Brazil's Pereira looks to make the fourth defense of his 205-pound title against an opponent who hasn't tasted defeat since 2018.

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira is set for his Octagon return following an incredible 2024. Pereira to Headline UFC 313 vs. Magomed Ankalev. Arguably the biggest star on the UFC roster at the moment,

The UFC dropped a bombshell announcement during the UFC 311 broadcast, revealing that light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira will defend his title against top contender Magomed Ankalaev in the main event of UFC 313.