LAS VEGAS – Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev have exchanged many words over social media and interviews before UFC 313 , but on Thursday, they came face-to-face for the first time in a formal setting. After answering questions from reporters at the pre-fight press conference, light heavyweight champion Pereira (12-2 MMA, 9-1 UFC) and top contender Ankalaev (20-1-1 MMA, 11-1-1 UFC) engaged in a staredown in advance of the anticipated clash. Both men were focused as they locked eyes, further building the tension ahead of Saturday’s main event title bout at T-Mobile Arena ( ESPN+ pay-per-view, ESPNews/Disney+, ESPN+). Pereira, 37, will attempt to make a fourth consecutive defense of his 205-pound belt, while Ankalaev, 32, looks to extend his 13-fight unbeaten streak by capturing gold for the first time.
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UFC 313 faceoff video: Alex Pereira, Magomed Ankalaev square up for first time – MMA Junkie