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

Rajiv Sharma

5 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Alex Pereira's DFS Outlook

Pereira's Strengths & Fighting Style

Alex Pereira possesses a devastating striking game that makes him a high-risk, high-reward option in DFS.

• Explosive Knockout Power: Pereira's power is undeniable. His highlight-reel knockouts showcase his ability to end fights swiftly, a crucial factor for DFS scoring, especially with bonus points awarded for finishes.
• Proven Finisher: His record speaks for itself. A high percentage of his wins come via knockout, translating directly into significant DFS points.
• Elite Competition Experience: Pereira has faced and defeated top-tier UFC opponents, proving his ability to perform under pressure in high-stakes matchups.
• High-Profile UFC Performances: His past fights have generated considerable hype, increasing his chances of a high-scoring performance that boosts your DFS lineup.

Pereira's Potential Weaknesses & Risks

While Pereira's striking is his greatest asset, he does have some vulnerabilities to consider for DFS purposes.

• Takedown Vulnerability: Pereira's ground game is considered a weakness. If Ankalaev can successfully take him down, it could significantly hamper his ability to land strikes and score points.
• Ground Game Limitations: His less-developed ground game represents a risk. Spending significant time on the ground reduces the opportunity for stand-up strikes and potential knockouts.
• Upset Potential: While a favorite, an upset is always possible in MMA. This inherent risk needs to be considered when building your DFS lineup.
• Injury History: As with any fighter, injuries are a concern. Checking for any recent injury reports is vital before making your DFS selection.

Pereira's DFS Value & Projection

Pereira's projected points vary across DFS platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. His high salary reflects his knockout potential, but his vulnerability to takedowns introduces risk. Carefully weigh his potential for a quick knockout against the risk of a lower-scoring decision or even a loss. Consider his projected points compared to his salary to determine if he represents good value for your DFS lineup.

Magomed Ankalaev's DFS Outlook

Ankalaev's Strengths & Fighting Style

Ankalaev presents a contrasting DFS strategy compared to Pereira. His strength lies in his grappling and control.

• Exceptional Wrestling & Grappling: Ankalaev's wrestling is elite, giving him a significant advantage in the grappling exchanges.
• High Control Rate: His ability to control the fight, maintaining top position or securing takedowns, ensures a consistent flow of points.
• Consistent Performance: Ankalaev is known for his consistency, rarely losing fights. This reliability is appealing for DFS lineups.
• Excellent Takedown Defense: His strong takedown defense helps mitigate the risk of being taken down himself, making him a relatively safe pick.

Ankalaev's Potential Weaknesses & Risks

While Ankalaev's grappling is a strength, his striking and bonus point potential are factors to consider for DFS.

• Limited Striking Power: His striking is not his primary weapon, limiting his potential for bonus points awarded for knockouts or knockdowns.
• Lower Bonus Point Potential: Decision victories, while likely, result in fewer points in most DFS scoring systems compared to a finish.
• Vulnerability to Pereira's Striking: Pereira’s striking power presents a clear threat; a single well-placed strike could change the entire fight.
• Matchup-Specific Considerations: The matchup against Pereira's aggressive striking style demands a careful assessment of Ankalaev's ability to control the distance and avoid significant strikes.

Ankalaev's DFS Value & Projection

Ankalaev is projected to score consistently, though potentially fewer points than Pereira if Pereira secures a quick knockout. His salary will likely be lower than Pereira's, making him a potential value play. Assess his projected points against his salary on different DFS platforms to see if he represents good value in your lineup construction.

UFC 313 DFS Strategy & Lineup Construction

Considering Other Fighters on the Card

Don't solely focus on the main event! UFC 313 features several other fights with DFS potential. Analyze the entire card to identify other high-value fighters who complement your main event selections.

Building a Balanced Lineup

Diversification is key. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Build a balanced lineup by selecting fighters from different weight classes and fight styles to minimize risk.

Utilizing Different DFS Platforms

Explore different DFS platforms (DraftKings, FanDuel, etc.) as they offer varied scoring systems and player values. This allows you to adjust your lineup strategy based on each platform's specific rules.

Bankroll Management

Responsible bankroll management is crucial. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Set a budget and stick to it.

Potential Upsets and Value Plays

Dark Horse Picks

Look for under-the-radar fighters with the potential to outperform their projected scores. These dark horse picks can significantly boost your lineup's overall points.

Analyzing Odds and Expert Predictions

Consider odds from reputable sportsbooks and expert predictions to inform your decisions. However, remember that these are just predictions, and unexpected results can happen in MMA.

Conclusion

This UFC 313 DFS preview of Alex Pereira vs Magomed Ankalaev has provided a detailed look at both fighters' strengths, weaknesses, and potential for DFS success. Remember to consider all factors – fighting styles, potential risks, and value – when constructing your lineups. While Pereira's knockout power offers significant upside, Ankalaev's grappling and control could lead to a consistent scoring performance. Don't forget to explore other fights on the card for potential value plays. Now it's your time to put your research into action and build your winning UFC 313 DFS lineups! Good luck and happy picking! Remember to always gamble responsibly.