Alex Pereira’s reign as UFC light heavyweight champion has come to an end. Magomed Ankalaev made history at UFC 313, becoming the first fighter in 2025 to be declared “and new” champion by Bruce Buffer. The question now is whether Pereira will seek an immediate rematch or move up to the heavyweight division.
In the aftermath of Saturday’s UFC 313 event, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck and Jed Meshew discussed Ankalaev’s unanimous decision victory over Pereira and the implications for the light heavyweight division. They analyzed Ankalaev’s potential first title defense, the UFC’s response to the changed landscape at 205 pounds, Justin Gaethje’s thrilling Fight of the Night performance against Rafael Fiziev, and whether Gaethje could be next in line for a title shot against Islam Makhachev. They also reviewed Maurico Ruffy’s Knockout of the Year contender against Bobby Green and provided overall grades for the UFC 313 fight card.
