Tag: alex pereira

Odds Leveling Out in UFC 313 Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Title Clash

Alex PereiraThe highly anticipated UFC 313 main event between reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and top contender Magomed Ankalaev…

Alex Pereira

The highly anticipated UFC 313 main event between reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and top contender Magomed Ankalaev is set to take place on March 8, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This marks Pereira’s fourth title defense since moving up to light heavyweight, while Ankalaev seeks to claim UFC gold after a strong run in the division.

Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev – Odds

The betting lines for this fight have been quite close, echoing the competitive nature of the matchup. Initially, Magomed Ankalaev opened as a slight favorite at around -150, but public betting has since evened the odds. As of now, most sportsbooks list both fighters at near pick’em odds, such as -110 or -112 for each. In January 2025, Pereira was listed as a slight underdog at -112 compared to Ankalaev’s -112. By February 2025, the lines had shifted further to reflect near parity, with some sportsbooks favoring Ankalaev marginally at -115 while others favored Alex Pereira at -110. Check out curated picks at http://twinspires.com/kentuckyderby/handicapping/ for expert selections.

UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier has voiced apprehensions about Pereira’s focus during the critical final weeks of training camp. Cormier emphasized Alex Pereira’s travel schedule, including a trip to Australia to corner Sean Strickland at UFC 312 and attending a Drake concert shortly after. Cormier questioned whether these activities, combined with jet lag and disrupted training routines, could hinder Pereira’s readiness for what many consider his toughest test to date. He stressed that Pereira should be prioritizing preparation.

Former middleweight champion Michael Bisping echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that Pereira’s travel and commitments might detract from his ability to fully prepare for Ankalaev. Both legends noted that Ankalaev has been intensely focused and training in Las Vegas, potentially giving him an edge in preparation.

Fans and analysts have noted the unusual number of “curses” associated with him heading into the fight. These so-called curses have become a lighthearted yet widely discussed topic. Pereira is reportedly linked to the infamous Drake Curse, where athletes or teams supported by the rapper often lose their events. ‘Poatan’ visited Drake in a concert recently. Pereira’s recognition as Fighter of the Year has also been labeled a potential jinx, given its history. Pereira graces the cover of the latest UFC video game, which some fans believe could bring misfortune, as previous cover athletes have struggled in their careers shortly after.

Known for his elite striking and knockout power, Alex Pereira has successfully defended his title multiple times with devastating finishes. However, his grappling remains a concern, as he has historically struggled against wrestlers. His striking is amongst the best in MMA history but his grappling ability is largely unknown.

Magomed Ankalaev is a versatile fighter with a strong wrestling base, Ankalaev excels at controlling opponents on the mat or on the feet. His striking is effective but not as explosive as Pereira’s, which could pose a challenge in exchanges.

UFC 313 will be a pivotal moment for both men. Alex Pereira’s elite striking faces Ankalaev’s well-rounded skillset and dominant wrestling. While Pereira is coming off a stellar 2024 with three title defenses, concerns have arisen over his preparation due to extensive travel and external distractions. This is what many consider his toughest challenge yet.

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Alex Pereira Also Open To Future Friendship With Jamahal Hill After Patching Things Up With Rival Israel Adesanya

When it comes to putting out fires in his combat sports career, a newfound camaraderie with Israel Adesanya isn’t the only unlikely friendship UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira is open to. While achieving unprecedented success in just a few short years under the UFC banner, former kickboxing star “Poatan” has already has his fair […]

When it comes to putting out fires in his combat sports career, a newfound camaraderie with Israel Adesanya isn’t the only unlikely friendship UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira is open to.

While achieving unprecedented success in just a few short years under the UFC banner, former kickboxing star “Poatan” has already has his fair share of rivalries.

Front and center is his feud with Adesanya, which was forged from two battles in the ring and the Brazilian ‘chasing’ his foe to the Octagon, where he dethroned him. A fourth clash between the pair finally went the way of “The Last Stylebender,” leading to talk of yet another installment.

But the pair have since swapped their back and forth for an apparent friendship. After some previous interactions, the pair sat alongside one another while in attendance at UFC 312 earlier this month. Adesanya even recited Pereira’s catchphrase during a video that the latter uploaded to social media.

And with one heated conflict now firmly in the past, “Poatan” is willing to do the same to another that’s currently raging on down the line.

During an interview on Straight Talk with Mark Bouris, Pereira was asked about the possibility of forming a similar bond with former opponent Jamahal Hill.

“Right now, at the moment no, because of a potential fight in the future. We fight in the same weight class,” Pereira said. “But if [it] happens just like Israel Adesanya, I’m not fighting him [Hill] anymore, I have no problem with that. We can be friends, train together; no problem for me.”

Pereira and Hill’s animosity arose ahead of their title bout at UFC 300 last April, with “Sweet Dreams” confidently downplaying the Brazilian’s threat only to be knocked out inside the first round.

As the American pursues a rematch, he attempted to confront Pereira at the UFC Performance Institute a couple of months back, with the champ’s coach ultimately getting between the pair after his man invited Hill to spar.

Alex Pereira Accepts Oleksandr Usyk Call Out, Claims Two Organizations To Be Already Working On The Bout

The reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has given a positive response when asked about a potential bout with boxing’s pound-for-pound king Oleksandr Usyk. The Brazilian MMA icon is scheduled to headline UFC 313, set to take place in the T-Mobile Arena In Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 8, 2025. In the main event, […]

The reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has given a positive response when asked about a potential bout with boxing’s pound-for-pound king Oleksandr Usyk.

The Brazilian MMA icon is scheduled to headline UFC 313, set to take place in the T-Mobile Arena In Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 8, 2025. In the main event, he will make the fourth defense of his title against Magomed Ankalaev, widely considered the biggest threat to his championship in the division.

Because of his striking-heavy fighting style and explosive knockout power, fans have often discussed how “Poatan” would perform in a boxing ring. Since “The Cat” expressed the desire to end his career with a boxing superfight against Pereira, fans have been very eager to learn if boxing promoters and Dana White are interested in cross-promoting such a battle too.

When asked about a boxing fight with Usyk with Mark Bouris, Pereira said:

“I had already said that before, right? That I would really like to have a boxing match and they asked me who it would be, I said,well I am champion right so it would have to be a champion and he is the champion. And now, he gave an interview and said my name so it is something that I want. He also wants and the two organizations, right, they are working kind of together so I think now it will I believe that this fight can happen.”

Do note that the statement above is based on Google’s translation of Pereira’s statements. The translator in the live interview was unfortunately called out for missing out on a lot of things so we relied on directly translating the UFC champ’s answer via Google Translator.

As it turns out, the bits about the two organzations (likely UFC and some boxing promotion) working together weren’t revealed in the live interview but Pereira hinting towards it certainly makes it seem like this matchup is not a far-fetched dream now.

Usyk’s wins over Tyson Fury have undoubtedly cemented him as an all-time great boxer. He’s formerly united all belts at cruiserweight, and is now eyeing to become a three-time undisputed champion. For his next boxing bout, he’ll face the winner of an upcoming fight between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker scheduled for February 22, 2025.

“Poatan”, on the other hand, is often seen sparring with professional heavyweight boxers and on many occasions, he’s mentioned about his will to compete in a boxing ring in the future.

Having said that, Pereira needs to handle business in the Octagon first and his performance against Ankalaev will naturally have a huge impact on his brand. A victory at UFC 313 could help him make big moves such as facing the UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones or move over to boxing as discussed above.

UFC Fans Stress about Drake Curse After Alex Pereira Met Up with Music Star

UFC Fans Stress about Drake Curse After Alex Pereira Met Up with Music StarWill Alex Pereira become the next victim of the infamous Drake Curse? Over the last few years, hip-hop star…

UFC Fans Stress about Drake Curse After Alex Pereira Met Up with Music Star

Will Alex Pereira become the next victim of the infamous Drake Curse?

Over the last few years, hip-hop star Drake has been accused of jinxing fighters after placing a series of bets that often see his chosen fighter fall. It all began in 2022 when the Degrassi star dropped $275,000 in Jorge Masvidal to beat Colby Covington at UFC 272. ‘Chaos’ ended up winning the fight via a very decisive unanimous decision victory.

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Two months later, Drake threw down $400,000 on Justin Gaethje to beat Charles Oliveira at UFC 274.

Gaethje was choked out in the opening round.

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Kendrick Lamar’s least favorite person lost another $400,000 in 2023 when he placed a bet on Jake Paul to knock out Tommy Fury in February 2023. Fury ended up handing ‘The Problem Child’ his only loss in boxing via split decision.

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‘The Curse will reign supreme’ at UFC 313

Recently, Drake was performing in Sydney, Australia when he bumped into Pereira, the UFC’s reigning light heavyweight champion who is set to defend his gold for the fourth time against top-ranked contender Magomed Ankalev next month at UFC 313 in Las Vegas.

Unsurprisingly, fans immediately speculated that their brief encounter could prompt Drake to drop a big-money bet on Pereira and make ‘Poatan’ the latest victim of MMA’s biggest superstition.

“ffs, I just put $100 on Ankalaev,” one user said.

“He beat the curse at 300, I struggle to believe Alex can defy the odds again,” another added.

“Alex is going to get hit with the Drake curse now,” a third wrote.

“Drake curse incoming.”

“Poor Pereira, Drake going to end up betting on him against Ankalaev now… the curse will reign supreme.”

“If anyone can break the Drake curse it’s Alex. That being said bet the house on ank.”

There have been a few instances of fighters breaking the Drake Curse. Most notably, undisputed UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. In March 2023, Drake threw down a half million dollars on ‘Bones’ to best Ciryl Gane in his heavyweight debut.

Jones ended up winning the bout via a quick-fire submission victory to add to his legacy and Drake’s bank account.

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‘That Makes Up For 312’ – Fans React To Reveal Of Full Main Card For UFC 313: Pereira vs. Ankalaev

The main card for next month’s UFC 313 pay-per-view event has been confirmed — and fans are expecting violence. After a disappointing numbered event Down Under in Sydney, Australia earlier this month, the promotion’s March offering on PPV comes from within the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Two highly anticipated clashes are set to headline, […]

The main card for next month’s UFC 313 pay-per-view event has been confirmed — and fans are expecting violence.

After a disappointing numbered event Down Under in Sydney, Australia earlier this month, the promotion’s March offering on PPV comes from within the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Two highly anticipated clashes are set to headline, with fan favorite Alex Pereira defending his light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev in the main event and Justin Gaethje meeting Dan Hooker in a sure-fire barnburner at 155 pounds.

During the broadcast of Saturday’s UFC Fight Night event at the Apex, the MMA leader confirmed which other three fights will go down on the UFC 313 main card, including two further lightweight bouts and a key contest at 115 pounds.

  • Light Heavyweight Championship: Alex Pereira (C) vs. Magomed Ankalaev
  • Lightweight: Justin Gaethje vs. Dan Hooker
  • Lightweight: Jalin Turner vs. Ignacio Bahamondes
  • Women’s Strawweight: Amanda Lemos vs. Iasmin Lucindo
  • Lightweight: King Green vs. Mauricio Ruffy

Fans quickly flocked to social media to react, with the majority seemingly anticipating a much more electric card at UFC 313 than was delivered to Aussie fans at Qudos Bank Arena on Feb. 8.

Oleksandr Usyk Teases Possible Boxing Showdown With UFC Champ Alex Pereira

Oleksandr Usyk is entertaining the possibility of a potential showdown with Alex Pereira down the road. “The Cat” has recently suggested that he is nearing the twilight of his storied boxing career, committing to two more fights before hanging up his gloves. Having dominated both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions while maintaining his undefeated record, […]

Oleksandr Usyk is entertaining the possibility of a potential showdown with Alex Pereira down the road.

“The Cat” has recently suggested that he is nearing the twilight of his storied boxing career, committing to two more fights before hanging up his gloves. Having dominated both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions while maintaining his undefeated record, he now stands on the verge of a well-deserved departure from the sport.

Usyk is coming off a commanding triumph over Tyson Fury in their highly anticipated rematch this past December, successfully defending his WBC, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles. The 38-year-old Ukrainian cemented his place as the undisputed champion when he first dethroned “The Gypsy King” in May 2024.

However, shortly after, he was compelled to relinquish the IBF title, which ultimately found its way into the hands of his former foe, Daniel Dubois.

Usyk will be intently observing Dubois’ upcoming title defense against Joseph Parker on Feb. 22 in Saudi Arabia, as the winner of this bout will be the next opponent for the former undisputed champion.

During a recent interview with TNT Sports, “The Cat” outlined what could very well be the final two bouts of his illustrious career. To the surprise of many, he revealed that in his last fight, he envisions stepping into the ring with reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Pereira.

“First, is who wins the next fight [Dubois vs. Parker] on Feb. 22, Usyk said.” Next? Maybe a show fight with Alex Pereira. Maybe – why not? Alex wants to.”

“Poatan” is no stranger to the sweet science of boxing, boasting a rich amateur background and even securing a professional win in July 2017, where he dispatched Marcelo de Souza Cruz via TKO. Pereira has also openly discussed his ambitions to transition to boxing once his MMA career reaches its conclusion.

Pereira is set to defend his 205-pound title for the fourth time against Magomed Ankalaev in the main event of UFC 313. The highly anticipated showdown is scheduled for March 8 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.