Fasting on Expert Mode

UFC 313 with the reigning champ Alex Pereira and #1 contender Magomed Ankalaev. Also, it’s happening during Ramadan which is why Ankalaev pleaded to change the date.  At least he’ll make the weigh-in easily. 

Pereira’s Striking vs Ankalaev’s ground game.

Pereira at -120 is a solid favorite bet. Perennially underrated Pereira is known for his striking ability but is a proven grappler as well. Like most people, watching him lose to Adesanya 2 years ago has overshadowed what he has accomplished and it’s the big fights with big names that sit in your subconscious but he has proven himself in his appropriate light heavyweight weight class and there’s no question he is the best at this weight. 

Ankalaev, from Russia and Muslim roots, will be fasting for UFC and his weigh-in and has an impressive 20-1-1 record to Perieras 12-2-0 record.  That said this doesn’t reflect Pereiras 21 knockouts in kickboxing and Ankalaev will be trying to take this fight to the ground. 

Ramadan with the L

The physical preparation and commitment in the UFC is an incredibly important portion of training, but despite Ankalaev’s commitment to his faith it doesn't sound like he will be taking any chances. Expect Ankalaev to be fully healthy and ready for this fight despite his “adjustments” for training during Ramadan.  Allhat said, we’re taking Pereira in this fight because of his absolute domination in recent fights. 

Peirera’s highlights

1. Knockout Power on a Different Level – Peirera hits about as hard as anyone in the UFC as a light heavyweight and has been known to end fights by sending his opponents to another dimension. 
2. Grappling skills – This is a man who wants to show off his grappling skills because people think it’s his Kryptonite, but it’s not. Remember the Jiri Prochazka fight? 

Prediction

Assuming Ankalaev is unable to twist pereira up. Perera should come out on top.  This matchup will likely be a tactical slow match with Ankalaev taking it slow, but Pereira only needs a few seconds to end it and he will likely win by points if he can’t KO him. Prediction: Pereira KO in the 4th.