Magomed Ankalaev Responds to Alex Pereira’s $200k Charity Bet

As UFC 313 approaches, the tension between light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and challenger Magomed Ankalaev continues to escalate, taking an unexpected turn with a proposed high-stakes charity bet. The upcoming title fight, set for this Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, has already captured the attention of MMA fans worldwide due to its intriguing stylistic matchup. Now, a social media exchange between the two fighters has added another layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated bout.

Pereira, known for his devastating striking and recent dominance in the division, took to social media platform X to propose a $200,000 bet with Ankalaev. The champion suggested that the winner’s charity of choice would receive the substantial sum, framing it as an opportunity to help those in need while adding extra motivation to their clash.

🗣️ Alex Pereira:

“Since Ali [Abdelaziz] and Ankalaev seem to be 100% confident that they’ll beat me, I think they will accept this challenge… they gotta bet, they have to.” 😳

🎥 @AlexPereiraUFC #UFC313pic.twitter.com/gN47nR99FX

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 3, 2025

However, Ankalaev’s response to this challenge was both unexpected and enlightening. The Dagestani fighter, currently riding a remarkable 13-fight unbeaten streak, declined the bet on religious grounds. In a thoughtful reply, Ankalaev stated, “As a Muslim you know betting is forbidden in Islam, and also as a Muslim every year I have to give 2.5% of my wealth to charity this is one of the five pillars of Islam”.

Magomed Ankalaev responds to Alex Pereira’s bet offer 👀👇 https://t.co/ubDSYVsf8x pic.twitter.com/4czYWivm4s

— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) March 3, 2025

Ankalaev’s response not only highlighted his commitment to his faith but also shed light on the Islamic practice of zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam that requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to charitable causes. He further emphasized that while he supports charitable actions, he believes such deeds don’t need to be publicized.

A Clash of Titans with History on the Line

While the proposed bet may not materialize, the stakes for this fight remain incredibly high. Pereira, who has been on a tear since claiming the light heavyweight title, is looking to cement his legacy in the division. A victory over Ankalaev would mark his fourth title defense in just 329 days, potentially surpassing Jon Jones’ record for the fastest four successful defenses in UFC light heavyweight history.

On the other hand, Ankalaev is not just fighting for the title but also to extend his own impressive streak. Currently five wins shy of matching Jones’ record-setting 18-fight unbeaten run, Ankalaev has the opportunity to inch closer to this milestone while potentially claiming UFC gold.

FIIIIIIIGHT WEEEEEK!!!!!

Pereira vs Ankalaev is LIVE SATURDAY on @ESPNPlus PPV! #UFC313 pic.twitter.com/6hLfr2GNDy

— danawhite (@danawhite) March 3, 2025

The stylistic matchup between these two fighters promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Pereira, with his kickboxing pedigree and knockout power, will be facing off against Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set and strategic approach to fighting. This contrast in styles, combined with the bad blood that has been brewing between them, sets the stage for what could be one of the most exciting light heavyweight title fights in recent memory.

As fight week unfolds, all eyes will be on the pre-fight press conference scheduled for Thursday. It remains to be seen whether the topic of the charity bet will resurface or if the focus will shift entirely to the impending battle. Regardless, both Pereira and Ankalaev have demonstrated their commitment to their respective causes – be it through public challenges or private adherence to faith and tradition.

The main event of UFC 313 is more than just a title fight; it’s a clash of cultures, fighting styles, and personal philosophies. As Pereira chases records and Ankalaev seeks to dethrone the champion, fans around the world eagerly await what promises to be an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts action.

With history on the line and two of the division’s most formidable fighters set to collide, UFC 313’s headliner is poised to deliver a contest that will be remembered for years to come, regardless of the outcome or any side bets.