Magomed Ankalaev scored a stunning upset with a unanimous decision to take Alex Pereira’s undisputed light heavyweight belt at UFC 313 in Las Vegas.
All three judges scored in favour of Ankalaev (21-1-1) in the Saturday night clash, with scores of 29-26 and two at 28-27.
Ankalaev fought a tactical, measured bout to unseat Pereira, who struggled to generate opportunities in the Octagon to unleash his signature left hook against the Dagestan fighter.
“I knew it would be a war”, said Pereira (12-3-0). “Every fight of mine is a war”.
Pereira’s loss to Ankalaev ends a highly publicised streak of three title defenses within the last year, a stretch that saw the 37-year-old become arguably the biggest star in the sport. A win would have made Pereira the second-fastest fighter to four title defenses in UFC history.
In the co-main event, the number three-ranked lightweight and fan favourite Justin Gaethje (27-5-0) earned a unanimous decision over number 11 Rafael Fiziev (12-4-0).
Gaethje was scheduled to fight Dan Hooker, who pulled out because of a hand injury. Gaethje dropped Fiziev with a stiff right uppercut in the second round.
Magomed Ankalaev of Russia (R) fights Alex Pereira of Brazil in a light heavyweight title fight during UFC 313 at T-Mobile Arena on March 8, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada]Ian Maule/Getty Images via AFP]
CCTV video captured the moment a Peruvian man miraculously survived after being run over by a train in Lima while he was asleep on the tracks. Authorities believe the 28-year-old was under the influence of alcohol, and he was taken to a hospital with minor hand injuries.
Jayson Tatum had 40 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists, helping the Boston Celtics defeat the visiting Los Angeles Lakers 111-101 in a game where LeBron James exited the contest with an injury.
Jaylen Brown added 31 points and six rebounds for the Celtics, who also received 14 points and nine rebounds from Al Horford in the Saturday night blockbuster clash between the NBA’s two winningest franchises.
James, who had 22 points and 14 rebounds for the Lakers, left the game with a groin strain with 6: 44 remaining in the fourth quarter and did not return.
James, 40, told reporters the injury would be treated “day-to-day” and added that there was “not much concern”.
Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 34 points and eight rebounds. He made five of 10 three-point attempts.
Austin Reaves was the only other Laker who scored in double figures with 16 points.
Los Angeles trailed by 22 points in the second half but was within four points after two Doncic free throws made it 96-92 with 5: 06 to play. The Lakers failed to get any closer, however, and Boston was able to pull away to secure the victory.
The loss ended the Lakers ‘ eight-game winning streak. They dropped down to third place in the Western Conference with a 41-22 record.
Boston improved to 46-18 to remain second in the Eastern Conference, seven and a half games behind leaders Cleveland.
LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers leaves the game after an injury during a match against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on March 8, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 111-101]Elsa/Getty Images via AFP]
Magomed Ankalaev upset Alex Pereira to win the light-heavyweight title by unanimous decision at UFC 313 in Las Vegas.
The Russian won the fight on the front foot, pressuring Brazil’s Pereira for the majority of the bout and making it difficult for the defending champion to land any of his trademark devastating shots.
The 32-year-old triumphed 48-47 48-47 49-46 on the judges ‘ scorecards.
“I can’t put it into words, it’s been such a long wait to reach my dream – the title is on my waist”, said Ankalaev.
“I don’t think anything surprised me. I think I could have done a better job in the fight but I’m happy I won. I want to thank my team, Russia, Dagestan, everybody – we have another belt now”.
Since his UFC debut in 2021, Pereira has quickly transformed into one of the promotion’s biggest stars, becoming a two-division champion in only seven fights – a record low.
After winning the middleweight title, Pereira moved up to light-heavyweight and after claiming gold, his three defences last year led to him being named the UFC fighter of the year alongside Ilia Topuria.
But in Ankalaev, Pereira was facing his biggest test, with the Russian’s wrestling predicted to cause problems for the former double kickboxing world champion.
Ankalaev came into the bout unbeaten since 2018, winning 11 fights, and gained redemption for a title slip-up in 2022 when a split draw with Jan Blachowicz saw him miss out on gold.
Following a now-trademark intense stare down from Pereira during the introductions, the Brazilian opened the contest with a succession of leg kicks that became a theme of the early stages.
By the end of the first round, Ankalaev was sporting redness on his calf, but he found success in the second round with some punch combinations, before rocking Pereira with a straight left before the bell.
The defending champion recovered well midway through the fight, continuing his relentless leg-kicking approach, while Ankalaev responded with punches and some front kicks of his own.
The Russian then gained control with his grappling, wearing Pereira down against the cage, which left the Brazilian breathing heavily heading into the final stages of a close contest.
Pereira landed leg kicks and a high kick before a jab stunned Ankalaev, but the Russian finished the fight controlling the action against the cage once more.
Both fighters raised their arms in the air in expectant triumph, but it was Ankalaev who was given the nod.
Defeat ends a remarkable run at light-heavyweight for Pereira as he missed out on a fourth title defence inside a year, while Ankalaev claimed his 12th straight victory.
“I knew it would be a war. He put some pressure on in the second round, but putting me up against the cage, he didn’t really do anything”, said Pereira.
“I’m going to keep training. I feel good, I’ll have a few days off and then get back in training. This is my life”.
The co-main event saw American Justin Gaethje win an entertaining contest with Azerbaijan’s Rafael Fiziev by decision.
Although we’re only at the beginning of March, wedding season is rearing its head, and if you’ve got any coming up, it’s best to start thinking about guest outfits now so you don’t leave it to the last minute. And ASOS has saved the day with its brand new premium womenswear line that’s filled with gorgeous occasionwear dresses.
ASOS ‘ new line, ARRANGE, officially launched on the site on March 3rd. The London-born and women-led brand offers a capsule of standout occasion dresses and luxe essentials. The prices are slightly higher than standard ASOS prices, but this is due to the higher-quality, premium pieces.
When talking about the new line, Vanessa Spence, Executive Vice President of brand &, Creative at ASOS, says: “We’re really excited to be the exclusive launch partner for ARRANGE, continuing our commitment to giving ASOS customers the best in fashion. The designers ‘ passion for this premium brand shines through in the level of detail and craftsmanship in the collection. Our customers are going to love what ARRANGE has to offer”.
The range is filled with stunning occasionwear dresses, elevated basics, and trending pieces, from suede barrel legs trousers to buttermilk yellow bomber jackets.
To help you out with some wedding guest inspiration, we’ve rounded up our favourite picks from the new line below…
ARRANGE chiffon pleat volume maxi dress with wide sleeve in green, £160
This is a statement occasionwear piece (ASOS)
This statement, almost 60s-style kaftan-style chiffon dress is the perfect piece if you’re looking for a ‘ wow ‘ moment. The dramatic sleeves and lime green hue ensure you’ll stand out from the crowd in the best way!
ARRANGE modern 30’s maxi satin dress with shoulder pad in blurred floral, £140
Florals are always a good idea (ASOS)
Due to its light colour, this might be a controversial wedding guest dress for a few. However, it’s still a great option if the dress code is more relaxed or for other summer occasions like garden parties, christenings, and formal work events. We love the slit in the skirt as it gives the dress a bit more shape and will avoid making you look too frumpy.
ARRANGE satin extreme sleeve maxi dress with ruching in ink floral print, £150
The cape detail elevates this dress (ASOS)
Another showstopper, this ink print green and blue satin dress is pretty amazing. The cape detailing is a really interesting design feature and adds a touch of luxe to the piece. Team with some gold platform heels or strappy black heels and a clutch bag for the ultimate occasionwear outfit.
ARRANGE embroidered satin quilted mini dress in sage, £130
A great option if you don’t like maxi dresses (ASOS)
If you’re not a fan of maxi or midi dresses, don’t worry, because ARRANGE has some gorgeous mini dress options to choose from. The sage green of this mini is so flattering and the slight cinched detail at the waist will provide a super figure-flattering silhouette.
Abercrombie &, Fitch is another great option for wedding guest and occasion dresses. They have a huge range of stylish maxis, satin jumpsuits and floral mini dresses.
Ellie Egar may have only burst onto our screens last year in The Real Housewives Of Cheshire, but she’s already making her mark. At 27, model and influencer Ellie is the youngest cast member to join the hit ITVBe show, which launched back in 2015. Excitingly, in this series of RHOC – its 18th – the glam gang will be in Thailand to celebrate the show’s 10th anniversary in lavish style.
And life is set to change in a dramatic way for Ellie as she is expecting her first baby, as well as squeezing in wedding planning with her financial advisor fiancé Chris Lewis, 41. Breaking the news on Instagram over Valentine’s weekend, Ellie shared a loved-up snap of the couple in Venice, revealing that Baby Lewis was due “this July”. As she prepares to welcome her first child – a little girl – she tells new about pregnancy surprises, RHOC drama, and why she’s “no pushover”…
Real Housewives star and fashion influencer Ellie Egar has opened up about her upcoming wedding and her pregnancy
They are expecting their first child
Hi, Ellie. Congratulations on your baby news!
Thank you. I’m in my nesting era at the moment. I’m usually here, there, and everywhere with work, but right now all I want to do is be at home and finish decorating. We’re about to start the nursery. That’s when it’ll feel more real.
Are you getting any advice from the other Housewives?
Yeah, especially Paige]Chohan] – she was so calm throughout her whole pregnancy, so talking to her makes me feel really zen. A lot of the other girls are telling me, ‘ It’ll hit you like a smack in the face ‘ but they’re not scaring me. I see how successful they all are while being mums, so I know I’ll be fine. I’m already clocking up all the pregnancy content.
Chris proposed to Ellie just six months ago, in one of her favourite hotels
The pair got engaged last year
How did you find out you were pregnant?
It was a complete shock! I came back from filming in Thailand and wasn’t feeling well. I took a test, left it on the side while tidying, and threw it in the bin without checking. It was only when it hit the bin that I was like, ‘ Oh my God! ‘ It was a lot to take in, but in the best way. I told Chris that evening – he was over the moon.
What was his reaction when you found out it was a girl?
He kept saying he didn’t mind either way, but after we found out, he admitted that he was excited. He already has a son, so having a little girl is his dream. I don’t know if he is ready for two Ellies in the house, though!
And how are you feeling?
I’m five months now and the tiredness is starting to show. I’ve had such a smooth pregnancy so far – no sickness, no major symptoms. I keep saying ‘ touch wood ‘ as I’ve still got the final trimester to go. The only thing I’m craving is ice-cold drinks.
Sheena, Ellie, Lystra, Paige, Nicole, Rachel, Lauren and Seema
You’re engaged too, how’s the wedding planning going? We’ve recently confirmed the venue and the wedding planner, so I’m feeling more relaxed now that things are sorting themselves out. The wedding is soon but myself and Chris didn’t want a really long engagement, we were desperate to marry each other. Obviously, I think my mum’s circumstances]Ellie’s mum was diagnosed with breast cancer several years ago, which is now secondary stage four in her bones] made us not want to look back and think, ‘ Oh we should have done it sooner, ‘ I want my mum and dad to cherish every single moment of that. The Housewives are invited but they’re not bridesmaids.
How does Chris feel about you being on RHOC?
He’s so supportive. When I first told him about it, he was like, ‘ 100%, do it! ‘ He’s my No1 fan.
How does it feel to be part of the 10-year anniversary series?
Pretty iconic. I remember watching it years ago, so being on it now is a pinch-me moment. I can’t say too much, but there are some surprises this season, it feels like a new era for the show. The trip to Thailand feels like a million years ago, so it’s so nice that everyone’s seeing it.
Ellie revealed that her wedding has been booked and it will be ‘ soon ‘
Ellie is also a fashion influencer
You’re also the youngest cast member…
Yes, I got a lot of stick for that last season. Some of the girls were quick to judge me and act like my opinions weren’t valid because of my age. I think as I’ve cemented myself into the group, they’re realising I’m no pushover. I’m not here to scream and shout, but I also won’t let kindness be mistaken for weakness. I’ll remove myself from any unnecessary drama.
Have your relationships with the girls evolved?
There are ups and downs, but we always find a resolution. I’m definitely closer to some of the girls than others, but that’s natural. Since I’m in a new stage of life, I’ve approached this season more level-headed. Paige and I get on so well, we’re at similar life stages. She’s so excited for our little girls to be besties. There’s a lot of baby talk in the show, that’s all I’ll say!
The Real Housewives Of Cheshire continues Mondays at 9pm on ITVBe and ITVX
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