By: Mark J. Bartlett

On Saturday, March 8, 2025, UFC 313 electrified the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, delivering a night of high-octane mixed martial arts action that left fans buzzing. The event was headlined by a light heavyweight title bout between reigning champion Alex Pereira and the formidable Magomed Ankalaev, with the co-main event featuring a thrilling rematch between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev. Complementing the live spectacle, Circa Resort & Casino’s Stadium Swim hosted a vibrant viewing party, offering fans a unique and immersive experience.

T-Mobile Arena: The Heartbeat of UFC 313

Situated on the Las Vegas Strip, the T-Mobile Arena has established itself as a premier venue for major sporting events and concerts. With a seating capacity of approximately 20,000, the arena provides an intimate yet grand setting for UFC events, ensuring that every attendee feels the intensity of the Octagon. The state-of-the-art facility boasts cutting-edge acoustics and visual systems, enhancing the live experience for fight fans.

On the night of UFC 313, the atmosphere inside T-Mobile Arena was electric. Fans from around the globe converged to witness the championship showdown, their anticipation palpable as they filled the seats. The arena’s design ensures that every spectator, whether seated cageside or in the upper tiers, has a clear and engaging view of the action. The energy of the crowd, combined with the high stakes of the matchups, created an unforgettable ambiance that only Las Vegas can offer.

Circa Resort & Casino’s Stadium Swim: A Unique Viewing Experience

For those who couldn’t secure a ticket to the live event, Circa Resort & Casino’s Stadium Swim provided an unparalleled alternative. Located in downtown Las Vegas, Circa has rapidly become a hotspot for sports enthusiasts, blending luxury with a passion for athletics. Stadium Swim, one of its standout features, is a year-round pool amphitheater equipped with a massive 143-foot diagonal high-definition screen, ensuring that guests don’t miss a moment of the action.

On March 8, Stadium Swim transformed into the “Circa Fight House,” hosting a UFC 313 viewing party that combined the thrill of live sports with the relaxation of a poolside retreat. Fans lounged in temperature-controlled pools, sipped on handcrafted cocktails, and enjoyed gourmet bites, all while watching the fights unfold in real-time. The venue’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the camaraderie of fellow fight enthusiasts, made it a standout destination for UFC 313.

Main Event: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira

The spotlight of UFC 313 was firmly on the light heavyweight title bout between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev. Pereira, known for his striking prowess and knockout power, faced a formidable opponent in Ankalaev, a master of Sambo with a well-rounded skill set.

From the opening bell, Ankalaev showcased a strategic approach, effectively neutralizing Pereira’s striking advantages. He applied consistent pressure, utilizing a mix of kicks and combinations to keep Pereira on the defensive. Pereira attempted to counter with his signature low kicks, but Ankalaev’s resilience and tactical acumen shone through.

Over the five-round contest, Ankalaev’s game plan proved superior. He intelligently applied pressure and strategic kicks, particularly using the rear teep kick to disrupt Pereira’s rhythm. His ability to adapt and control the pace led to a unanimous decision victory, crowning him the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.

Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev II

The co-main event featured a highly anticipated rematch between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev. Their first encounter was a barnburner, and fans expected nothing less in the sequel.

Fiziev entered the Octagon with noticeable adjustments to his strategy, aiming to counter Gaethje’s notorious leg kicks and relentless pressure. He focused on bodywork, delivering sharp kicks and clinch knees to sap Gaethje’s stamina. However, Gaethje’s experience and adaptability came to the forefront as the fight progressed.

In the later rounds, Gaethje began finding success in close exchanges, landing powerful uppercuts and combinations that swayed the judges in his favor. After three intense rounds, Gaethje secured a unanimous decision victory, reaffirming his position among the lightweight elite.

Notable Performances and Emerging Stars

UFC 313 also served as a platform for rising talents to make their mark:

• Mauricio Ruffy: The Brazilian prospect delivered one of the most memorable knockouts in recent history. Facing veteran King Green, Ruffy executed a flawless spinning wheel kick in the first round, rendering Green unconscious. This spectacular finish not only earned him widespread acclaim but also drew comparisons to former two-division champion Conor McGregor for his unique fighting style.
• Ignacio Bahamondes: Demonstrating his grappling prowess, Bahamondes secured a first-round submission victory over Jalin Turner. After weathering Turner’s striking offense, Bahamondes capitalized on a ground exchange, locking in a triangle choke that forced Turner to tap. This win solidified Bahamondes’ status as a rising contender in the lightweight division.

The Fan Experience: A Night to Remember

Whether inside the T-Mobile Arena or at Circa’s Stadium Swim, fans were treated to an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts action. The live audience at the arena reveled in the palpable tension and exhilaration that only a UFC event can provide. Chants, cheers, and gasps echoed throughout the venue as fighters exchanged blows and showcased their skills.

Meanwhile, at Stadium Swim, attendees enjoyed a more relaxed yet equally engaging atmosphere. The combination of a luxurious pool setting, massive high-definition screens, and the company of fellow fight fans made Circa Fight House one of the premier spots to watch UFC 313 in Las Vegas.

Conclusion

UFC 313 delivered another spectacular chapter in the sport’s history, with Magomed Ankalaev seizing the light heavyweight crown, Justin Gaethje reaffirming his dominance, and emerging talents making their mark. Whether inside the T-Mobile Arena or at Circa Resort’s Stadium Swim, fans experienced an unforgettable night of combat sports entertainment in true Las Vegas style.

For more information about Circa Fight House and upcoming UFC viewing events, visit Circa Las Vegas.