UFC 313 featured significant developments in the world of mixed martial arts, most notably with the crowning of a new light heavyweight champion and a potential title contender emerging in the lightweight division.

Main Event: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira

In a tactical main event, Magomed Ankalaev dethroned Alex Pereira to claim the light heavyweight title. Ankalaev executed a strategic gameplan that resulted in a unanimous decision victory. Before this encounter, Pereira had been undefeated in the 205-pound class and had achieved his last four victories by knockout.

Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev

In the co-main event, Justin Gaethje disrupted Rafael Fiziev’s much-anticipated return from injury, winning by unanimous decision. This outcome likely positions Gaethje as a front-runner for a title challenge against Islam Makhachev in the lightweight division.

Future Matchmaking Considerations

With the conclusion of UFC 313, speculation around future matchups is rife. Here’s a look at what could be next for the top fighters of the event:

Magomed Ankalaev

Next Opponent: Jiří Procházka

Ankalaev’s first title defense could hinge on Pereira’s decision to either move up to heavyweight or remain at light heavyweight. If Pereira opts for a weight change, a matchup against Procházka would provide both fighters ample preparation time, especially considering Procházka’s prior short camp against Pereira.

Wildcard: Alex Pereira

A rematch between Ankalaev and Pereira remains a possibility, although after such a significant loss, Pereira might benefit from a break.

Alex Pereira

Next Opponent: Winner of Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall

Pereira’s future is uncertain, but a transition to heavyweight for a fight against either Jones or Aspinall could generate significant interest. The 205-pound division does not offer him compelling matchups post-defeat.

Wildcard: Magomed Ankalaev

If Pereira decides to stay in his current division, a rematch with Ankalaev could be on the horizon, although it may not be the most enticing option for fans.

Justin Gaethje

Next Opponent: Islam Makhachev

Gaethje, having taken risks for a high-profile BMF matchup, deserves a title shot against Makhachev after his recent victory. This matchup promises to be of high interest to fans and would see Gaethje finally claimed the opportunity he earned.

Wildcard: Dan Hooker

Should the UFC pursue other high-profile matchups, a rescheduled fight against Hooker could be an appropriate step for Gaethje.

Rafael Fiziev

Next Opponent: Mateusz Gamrot

Fiziev and Gamrot both find themselves in challenging positions, making this rematch necessary. Their previous fight ended prematurely, and a sequel would clarify their standings in the division.

Wildcard: Loser of Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett

A matchup against the loser of the forthcoming Chandler-Pimblett fight could provide exciting opportunities for Fiziev.

Mauricio Ruffy

Next Opponent: Beneil Dariush

Ruffy has called out Dariush, a matchup that seems fitting given both fighters’ trajectories. Ruffy’s recent performance has earned him a significant opportunity for advancement.

Wildcard: Renato Moicano

If a fight with Dariush cannot be arranged, Moicano would serve as a viable alternative for Ruffy to showcase his potential further.