3 fights to make for Alex Pereira after UFC 313 ft. Tom Aspinall

A detailed analysis of next fight options for former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira after UFC 313.

3 fights to make for Alex Pereira after UFC 313 ft. Tom Aspinall

A list of Alex Pereira's next potential opponents (Image via MMA Fighting)

Alex Pereira was just steps away from making history with a remarkable title defense at UFC 313. However, the fight didn’t unfold as the Brazilian fighter had hoped. Standing in his way was the formidable Magomed Ankalaev, a tough and determined light heavyweight from Dagestan, ready to challenge Pereira’s reign and push him to his limits.

Since transitioning to the UFC light heavyweight division, Pereira has showcased impressive dominance and has been an unstoppable force. Similarly, Ankalaev entered the fight with a remarkable 13-fight undefeated streak in the 205 lbs division. Given their reputations, fight fans were eagerly anticipating a tough battle at the main event clash of UFC 313.

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Many speculated that it would be a close match for the officials to judge; however, the judges ultimately favored the Dagestani fighter. As a result, Ankalaev defeated Pereira by unanimous decision and became the new UFC light heavyweight champion. This brings up the question of who the Brazilian fighter might face next in the promotion.

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3. Move up and challenge Tom Aspinall

In recent months, there has been considerable discussion about Alex Pereira moving up to the UFC heavyweight division. As a result, many notable UFC superstars have encouraged Pereira to consider this move and become the first fighter in the promotion’s history to win championships in three different divisions. Notably, after losing his middleweight title to Israel Adesanya, the Brazilian fighter transitioned to the UFC light heavyweight division.

Pereira has faced nearly all of the formidable competitors in the 205 lbs division. With that experience, he may consider moving up to the UFC heavyweight division. Meanwhile, the 265 lbs division is highly competitive, featuring many stars competing for the title held by champion Jon Jones. Among these contenders, interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall stands out as one of the top fighters.

Tom Aspinall staring down Alex Pereira
Tom Aspinall staring down Alex Pereira (Image via X)

Jones has meticulously kept Aspinall away from a potential title unification bout, stating that that Brit hasn’t accomplished anything significant in the UFC. Instead, the UFC heavyweight champion is more interested in fighting Pereira.

Given this situation, a matchup between Aspinall and Pereira could serve as a title eliminator for Jones’ championship. However, this largely depends on whether Pereira is interested in pursuing his heavyweight division aspirations.

2. Unfazed by title stipulation, former rival Jiri Prochazka calls in for another go against Alex Pereira

At UFC 295, Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka faced each other for the first time in the promotion. After delivering an impressive display of striking, Pereira defeated Prochazka to win the vacant UFC light heavyweight title. However, the UFC community was not satisfied with the outcome of this fight between such renowned fighters. As a result, Pereira and Prochazka were scheduled to face off once again at UFC 303.

Jiri Prochazka calls for another fight against Alex Pereira
Jiri Prochazka calls for another fight against Alex Pereira (Image via MMA Fighting/Bloody Elbow)

Prochazka fought his way back to a title shot in the light heavyweight division after defeating Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 300. However, unlike their previous encounter, Pereira delivered an electrifying performance at UFC 303. As such, the Brazilian fighter decisively knocked Prochazka out cold with a devastating head kick.

In a bid to re-establish himself in the UFC light heavyweight division, Prochazka faced Jamahal Hill at UFC 311. After a dominating victory over Hill, the Czech fighter immediately expressed his desire for a trilogy fight. Prochazka is keen on another opportunity to compete for the UFC light heavyweight title. Despite ‘Poatan’ losing the title at UFC 313, he remains interested in one final clash with the Brazilian fighter.

1. An immediate rematch to settle the feud between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev

While Alex Pereira solidified his position as the UFC light heavyweight champion, Magomed Ankalaev consistently dismissed ‘Poatan’ as the rightful champion. This disrespect led to a year-long back-and-forth rivalry between the two light-heavyweight superstars. Ultimately, at UFC 313, the promotion provided them with the opportunity to face each other in the Octagon.

Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev in action at UFC 313
Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev in action at UFC 313 (Image via UFC)

Along with his wrestling prowess, Ankalaev also possesses strong striking skills, which he effectively showcased against Pereira. Amid constant pressure and takedown threats, the Brazilian fighter struggled to score points. Although Ankalaev won the fight unanimously, Pereira was dissatisfied with the outcome and expressed his displeasure during his post-fight interview in the octagon.

The newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion remains unfazed by Pereira’s opinions and is eager to give him another chance in the octagon. When UFC CEO Dana White was asked about a potential rematch between the Brazilian fighter and Ankalaev, he also indicated that this option is being considered. It will be interesting to see which of these options he deems the most suitable.

Related: Alex Pereira Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife, and House