Russian fighter Magomed Ankalaev responded to whether he would dedicate his victory in the fight against UFC light heavyweight champion Brazilian Alex Pereira to three-time Olympic wrestling champion Buvaisar Saitiev, who passed away on March 2 at the age of 49.
Ankalaev and Pereira are set to meet in the main event of UFC 313 on March 9 in Las Vegas, USA.
God gives life and takes it away. Buvaisar was a legend of world sports and wrestling. I think we will dedicate this victory to him and we’ll do everything possible to take the belt.
Ankalaev's last fight was against Aleksandar Rakic in October 2024 at UFC 308, where he won by unanimous decision. His record includes 19 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with one fight ruled as no contest.
Pereira last entered the octagon against Khalil Rountree in October 2024 at UFC 307, where he won by technical knockout in the fourth round. He currently holds a record of 12 wins and 2 losses.
