Magomed Ankalaev has stunned fans with a jaw-dropping admission about his Ramadan practices as he prepares to battle UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira at UFC 313 on March 9. This isn’t just another title fight—it’s a seismic clash between two juggernauts. Pereira, the Brazilian striking savant, brings bone-crushing power, while Ankalaev, riding a 13-fight unbeaten streak, is a grappling maestro with a reputation for suffocating opponents.
The tension peaked at their recent face-off, where both fighters exchanged fiery stares, setting the stage for their Las Vegas duel. But amidst the fight-week chaos, Ankalaev, a devout Muslim, dropped a bombshell about balancing faith and combat—a revelation that could redefine this matchup.
Magomed Ankalaev’s bold compromise between Ramadan and UFC gold
Ramadan, the holy month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide, began on February 28—a period when Ankalaev typically abstains from food and drink from dawn to sunset. But with the biggest fight of his career looming, the Dagestani contender faced an agonizing choice: strict religious observance or strategic preparation. In a candid interview with Ag. Fight, Ankalaev unveiled his decision to adapt his routine, prioritizing his UFC 313 title bid without abandoning his faith.
“I have been following the fast strictly except for this week, where I will have to break it a few times because I need to make sure I drink water to have a successful weight cut,” Ankalaev revealed. “But apart from that, I started with Ramadan. I have been fasting. And after the fight, I will obviously also follow the rules of religion as it has to be.”
This admission underscores the brutal realities of MMA preparation. Weight cuts demand precise hydration and nutrition, making fasting during fight week nearly impossible. Magomed Ankalaev’s compromise highlights his dedication to both faith and craft, but it also raises questions: Will this adjustment leave him physically drained, or will it fuel his focus?
Alex Pereira, meanwhile, faces a unique challenge. Known for exploiting opponents’ weaknesses, he must now contend with a rival who’s mentally unshaken by sacrifice. Ankalaev’s ability to balance spiritual discipline with combat pragmatism could unsettle Pereira’s rhythm. Yet, the Brazilian’s trademark left hook remains a threat capable of ending any fight in seconds.
Magomed Ankalaev’s revelation adds layers to an already explosive showdown. Will his tailored Ramadan approach grant him the edge, or will Alex Pereira’s ruthless striking prove too much? One thing’s certain: At UFC 313, faith, strategy, and fists will collide in a battle for legacy. Don’t blink—this is history in the making.