Magomed Ankalaev is preparing for a UFC 313 title fight against Alex Pereira during Ramadan, requiring him to break his fast for weight-cutting purposes, while responding to Pereira’s comments about fasting and rejecting a charity wager due to Islamic prohibitions on gambling.
Magomed Ankalaev knew that accepting a title fight against Alex Pereira at UFC 313 on March 8 would require sacrifices. The date falls just a week into Ramadan, a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide.
During Ramadan, fasting from dawn until sunset is mandatory, meaning no food or water during daylight hours. Although this didn’t affect his training, Ankalaev had to break the fast as he prepared to cut down to 205 pounds for the fight.
“If we’re talking about training or the training camp, preparation was done before Ramadan,” Ankalaev mentioned during UFC 313 media day. “The only thing we had to change was breaking a couple of fasting sessions to drink enough water to make weight.”
Ankalaev also heard Pereira’s comments about food deliveries to his room. This didn’t necessarily mean he ate anything while observing fasting rules.
Ankalaev can’t help but wonder why Pereira is so concerned with his actions. “He seems nervous,” Ankalaev said. “He’s following all these things. I had to break the fast a couple of times for weight and preparation.”
“Even if he goes to a fridge now, he’d see food with my name on it,” Ankalaev added. “If he wants it, he can take it.”
Pereira suggested a $200,000 wager between them for charity, shouldering the loser with the donation responsibility. But there’s a catch—gambling isn’t allowed in Islam.
Ankalaev proposed straightforward donations instead of bets. “As Muslims, we cannot do bets,” he clarified. “But I’m happy to partake in any charity initiatives.”
Pereira’s focus on Ankalaev’s religious practices might stem from concerns about his own focus. He traveled to Australia recently, cornering Sean Strickland and handling business abroad.
Despite what might seem like criticism, Ankalaev insists it’s not personal. “We were worried about him being everywhere,” he explained. “Maybe he should’ve seen it as concern rather than criticism.”