After a decisive victory at UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev has officially become the light heavyweight champion, dethroning Alex Pereira. The judges rendered a unanimous decision, showcasing Ankalaev’s dominance throughout the fight, further solidifying his position among the top fighters in mixed martial arts.
Ranking Impacts Post-UFC 313
Ankalaev’s win propelled him into the ESPN men’s pound-for-pound rankings for the first time, although opinions on his exact placement vary. While every voting panel includes him, his ranking ranges significantly from the top four to near the bottom. This disparity highlights the ongoing debate regarding fighter evaluations and their performance on big stages.
Meanwhile, Alex Pereira, who was ranked No. 2 prior to this bout, remains a prominent figure within the top five—evidence of his previous performance. However, one vote places him lower, indicating that not all analysts are convinced of his standing after the loss.
Current Rankings Overview
In the latest updates, both fighters still hold spots in the coveted top ten, marking the only substantial movement in these rankings. The competition is tight as they both represent a new era in the light heavyweight class:
- 1. Islam Makhachev – Lightweight Champion, Record: 27-1
- 2. Ilia Topuria – Featherweight Champion, Record: 16-0
- 3. Jon Jones – Heavyweight Champion, Record: 28-1, 1 NC
- 4. Merab Dvalishvili – Bantamweight Champion, Record: 19-4
- 5. Tom Aspinall – Heavyweight Interim Champion, Record: 15-3
- 6. Magomed Ankalaev – Light Heavyweight Champion, Record: 20-1-1, 1 NC
- 7. Alexandre Pantoja – Flyweight Champion, Record: 29-5
- T-8. Dricus Du Plessis – Middleweight Champion, Record: 23-2
- T-8. Alex Pereira – Light Heavyweight, Record: 12-3
- 10. Belal Muhammad – Welterweight Champion, Record: 24-3, 1 NC
Additionally, ESPN maintains a vibrant community of analysts contributing to these rankings, and collecting varied perspectives reflects the competitive nature of the sport.
Fighter Eligibility and Ranking Criteria
To qualify for these rankings, fighters must have competed in the past year or have upcoming bouts scheduled. Inactive fighters risk removal and can only regain their status post-competition, emphasizing the dynamic and fast-paced landscape of MMA.
UFC fans and analysts will be keeping a keen eye on subsequent events that may affect these rankings, as fighters like Ankalaev and Pereira navigate the intricate world of championship bouts and title defenses.
