UFC 313 is in the books after a closely disputed main event that went to the score cards.
The return from the Octagon to the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas contained a number of great highlights and stunning versions.
Justin Gaethje's second victory over Rafael Fiziev was another great outing of 'The Highlight', but the main event was the real ticket seller on March 8.
Alex Pereira stood opposite Magomed Ankalaev in the fourth defense of his light heavyweight title against the man who expected many to be his most difficult challenge.
This turned out to be the case with Ankalaev who got Pereira off a unanimous decision despite the fact that he had limited success with his struggling.
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Fans respond to Alex Pereira vs Magomed Ankalaev Scorecards
The most important event of UFC 313 was a strategic confrontation, where despite the fact that he had a good part of the moments, many fight fans did not think that Alex Pereira performed particularly well.
'Patan' won the first round on all three score cards, but Magomed Ankalaev was able to respond extremely well in the second round and landed the biggest shot of the fight in the last seconds.
The third round was seen as controversial by many, but despite how close it was, all three judges agreed that the challenger did enough to win 10-9.
Ankalaev insured a clear round in the fourth, where he was able to struggle with the champion against the cage and to limit the attack of the dangerous striker.
Pereira took the fifth round on two of the score cards, but it was not enough to swing the fight in his favor, which resulted in 48-47, 48-47 and 49-46 for a unanimous decision.
After the UFC posted the scor cards on social media in the immediate aftermath of the fight, fans responded to the final decision of the night at UFC 313.
Pereira's fan base is always vocal, but they were especially critical of the jury members in this case.
“I think we've already had enough. Stop the memes and jokes. Just fire sal d'Amato. Do you know what? Fire them all. I want new judges from now on. New names. I am tired, “answered one fan, while the other echoed the same sentiment by calling to the promotion to” dismiss these judges. “
Can Alex Pereira be in a rematch against Ankalaev?
Given what Alex Pereira was able to do as the light heavyweight champion and how close the fight was, a rematch with Magomed Ankalaev is not from the rich possibilities.
That said, 'Patan' also has other options for large fights, whether it means that he goes to heavyweight or immerses his toes in boxing.
Pereira may want the victory back, but with how devastating he was at 205 pounds, at least there would be the chance for some new matchups in the division when Ankalaev continues from the Brazilian.
A rematch in Abu Dhabi would not be the worst idea and like everything Pereira does, the fans will be on board, but it is not the most exciting option for the former champion now.
Comments