Alex Pereira will defend his light heavyweight championship against Magomed Ankalaev in the main event of UFC 313 on March 8, 2025, in Las Vegas, with a co-main event featuring Justin Gaethje versus Dan Hooker.
Alex Pereira’s got his first fight of 2025 lined up.
“Poatan” is stepping into the spotlight at UFC 313 on March 8 in Las Vegas. He’ll be defending his light heavyweight crown against top contender Magomed Ankalaev. This main event clash was officially announced during Saturday’s UFC 311 broadcast.
The co-main event? Oh, it’s a banger! Lightweight fan favorites Justin Gaethje and Dan Hooker are set to throw down.
Pereira’s coming off a jaw-dropping 2024. He headlined three UFC pay-per-views, each time leaving with a highlight-reel knockout and his light heavyweight belt. Most recently, he took down Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307 in October.
Now, he faces Ankalaev. A longtime contender who’s been waiting for this shot, Ankalaev hasn’t tasted defeat in his last 13 outings since his UFC debut loss in 2018.
Meanwhile, Gaethje and Hooker are both eager to stay relevant in the lightweight title scene. “The Highlight” is fresh off a grueling battle with Max Holloway at UFC 300. Hooker? He’s riding high on a three-fight win streak after victories over Mateusz Gamrot, Jalin Turner, and Claudio Puelles.