Alex Pereira Vs Magomed Ankalaev: UFC 313 DFS Preview & Picks

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Alex Pereira's DFS Outlook

Pereira's Strengths & Weaknesses

Alex Pereira, the former Glory middleweight champion, boasts devastating striking power and incredible knockout potential. His brutal left hook has ended the careers of many opponents, making him a high-risk, high-reward DFS play. However, his grappling defense is a significant weakness. While his striking is elite, Ankalaev’s wrestling could pose a serious threat, potentially negating Pereira's offensive capabilities and leading to a lower DFS score. Pereira’s tendency to engage in striking exchanges makes him vulnerable to takedowns and ground control. This is a key factor in assessing his Alex Pereira DFS value.

Pereira's Potential for a High Score

Pereira’s potential for a high DFS score hinges on a swift, decisive victory. If he lands one of his trademark power shots early, resulting in an early knockout, his DFS score will skyrocket. His past performances, including his knockout wins over Israel Adesanya, showcase this explosive potential. A dominant striking performance, even without a knockout, could still yield a respectable score, depending on the scoring system.

Pereira's Risk Assessment

The risk with Pereira is significant. Ankalaev's superior wrestling could negate Pereira’s striking advantage, leading to a lower-scoring decision loss or even a submission. The potential for injury is also a factor, as Pereira’s aggressive fighting style exposes him to significant risk. An early takedown and sustained ground control could severely limit his scoring opportunities, diminishing his Alex Pereira DFS value.

• Key Stats: Significant Strikes Landed, Knockdowns, Knockouts.
• Potential DFS Points (based on outcome):
  • Early Knockout: 100+ points
  • Decision Win: 60-80 points
  • Loss: 20-40 points

Magomed Ankalaev's DFS Outlook

Ankalaev's Strengths & Weaknesses

Magomed Ankalaev is a well-rounded fighter with exceptional wrestling and grappling skills. His striking, while not as explosive as Pereira's, is accurate and consistent. Ankalaev's grappling defense is a significant asset, allowing him to withstand takedown attempts. A key weakness for Ankalaev might be his ability to finish fights; he relies heavily on decision victories. This consistency is great for win probability, but not necessarily for maximum DFS points.

Ankalaev's Potential for a High Score

Ankalaev's path to a high DFS score likely involves a decision victory secured through consistent takedowns, ground control, and effective striking. Dominating ground control for extended periods will rack up points. While a knockout is possible, it's less likely than a decision based on his past fight performances. He will need to demonstrate clear control of the fight to achieve a higher score.

Ankalaev's Risk Assessment

Ankalaev faces a lower risk of an early knockout compared to Pereira, but he can still suffer an upset. Pereira's power punching poses a threat, and a single well-placed shot could change the fight's trajectory. Injury is always a possibility in MMA, but Ankalaev's defensive wrestling could mitigate some of the risk.

• Key Stats: Takedowns, Significant Strikes Landed, Control Time.
• Potential DFS Points (based on outcome):
  • Decision Win: 70-90 points
  • Knockout Win: 90+ points
  • Loss: 30-50 points

UFC 313 DFS Strategy & Picks

Optimal Lineup Construction

Building an optimal UFC 313 DFS lineup requires balancing high-ceiling, high-risk plays like Pereira with safer, high-floor options like Ankalaev. Consider other fighters on the card with favorable matchups to round out your roster. Look for fighters with a high probability of earning a decision win to secure a consistent base score.

Value Plays and GPP Considerations

For Guaranteed Prize Pools (GPPs), don't be afraid to take risks on higher-ceiling fighters like Pereira. This is a high-variance fight, with knockout potential offering significant upside. In cash games, prioritize safer, more consistent performers who are less likely to score poorly. Look for value plays among the preliminary card fighters.

Recommended DFS Picks

Based on our analysis:

• High-Risk, High-Reward: Alex Pereira (GPPs)
• Safer, High-Floor Option: Magomed Ankalaev (Cash Games and GPPs)

Conclusion

The Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev matchup at UFC 313 presents a compelling DFS opportunity, but careful consideration of risk and reward is essential. Pereira offers explosive knockout potential for a high DFS score, but he’s vulnerable to Ankalaev's grappling. Ankalaev provides a safer path to a high score through dominant wrestling and control. Utilizing the insights in this analysis, you can craft a winning UFC 313 DFS lineup and increase your chances of winning your DFS contest. Check out our other articles for more Daily Fantasy MMA advice! Good luck with your Alex Pereira vs Magomed Ankalaev DFS picks!