Many supporters flocked to see newly crowned UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Magomed Ankalaev touch back down in Dagestan this week.
Ankalaev reached the pinnacle on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage this past weekend in the headlining act of UFC 313, held inside Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.
While long-reigning champ Alex Pereira showed staunch takedown defense across their five-round contest, Ankalaev made good on his promise to get the better of “Poatan” in the striking realm.
A unanimous decision verdict saw the title change hands after a reign that spanned three successful defenses for Pereira. The Brazilian is now looking ahead to the adjustments he’ll need to make for a likely rematch this year.
Magomed Ankalaev, meanwhile, continues to celebrate his championship triumph, which came at the second time of trying just over two years on from a draw with Jan Blachowicz.
The new kingpin was most recently seen returning to his homeland. A video posted by Ushatayka showed Ankalaev with the light heavyweight gold in tow as he landed back in Dagestan, where he was greeted by a hero’s welcome from the masses.
Magomed Ankalaev received a hero’s welcome upon returning to Dagestan after winning the UFC lightheavyweight title
Ushatayka #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/QenlLwp3Ru
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 11, 2025
The scenes were similar to the frequent returns of lightweight titleholder Islam Makhachev following his championship fight victories in the UFC.
Magomed Ankalaev will now look to replicate his fellow Dagestani by racking up some successful defenses in the coming months and years.
