Pereira Challenges Ankalaev with $200,000 Charity Bet
UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira has issued a $200,000 charity bet challenge to Magomed Ankalaev ahead of their UFC 313 title fight.
Pereira Raises the Stakes Ahead of UFC 313
UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira has added an extra layer of intrigue to his upcoming title defense against Magomed Ankalaev by proposing a $200,000 charity bet. The bout is scheduled for Saturday, March 8, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, serving as the main event of UFC 313.
Pereira, known for his striking prowess and competitive spirit, took to social media to challenge Ankalaev and his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, suggesting that the winner should donate $200,000 to a charity of their choice. He stated:
“Since you are so confident you will win, $200,000 to the winner’s charity of choice. Win or lose, this will help those in need. It’s in your hands.”
Ankalaev’s Response and Religious Considerations
Magomed Ankalaev, a devout Muslim, responded to Pereira’s proposal by highlighting that betting is prohibited in Islam. He emphasized his commitment to charitable giving through religious obligations, stating:
“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. Many kids around the world are in need, and we can do things after the fight, but we don’t have to publicize it.”
Ankalaev suggested that their respective managers handle any charitable arrangements privately, concluding with:
“Your manager and my manager have a good relationship, and we can let them handle that. See you soon. Ramadan Mubarak.”
TRENDING:
- Gervonta Davis Explains Taking a Knee – Roach Demands Justice
- UFC Vegas 103: Kape vs. Almabayev – Full Results and Highlights
- Robert Whittaker Targets Summer Return – Calls Out Former Champion
Since you are so confident you will win, $200,000 to the winners charity of choice. Win or lose this will help those in need. It’s in your hands @AliAbdelaziz00 @AnkalaevM
— Alex "Poatan" Pereira (@AlexPereiraUFC) March 3, 2025
Fight Preparations and Expectations
Pereira, who claimed the light heavyweight title in November 2023, will be defending his belt for the fourth time at UFC 313. His previous title defense resulted in a fourth-round knockout victory over Khalil Rountree Jr.
Ankalaev enters the bout on a 13-fight unbeaten streak, with his last appearance being a unanimous decision win over Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 308 in October.
The main card of UFC 313 is expected to begin at 3 AM GMT on Sunday, March 9, with Pereira and Ankalaev headlining the event.
Summary and Call to Action
The proposed charity bet has added an intriguing narrative to the UFC 313 main event, reflecting the fighters’ contrasting perspectives on competition and philanthropy. As the fight approaches, fans are eager to see how this storyline unfolds inside the Octagon.
For more updates and in-depth coverage of UFC 313, visit MMAnytt.se
