Alex Pereira loses chance to replicate Israel Adesanya rivalry as kickboxing rival rejects low UFC pay

UFC loses out on Artem Vakhitov, who could have been a part of a rivalry similar to Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya.

Alex Pereira loses chance to replicate Israel Adesanya rivalry as kickboxing rival rejects low UFC pay

Alex Pereira’s old rival, Artem Vakhitov, rejects the UFC ( via X)

Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya’s rivalry has been one of the most storied one in recent years, generating millions of views and massive revenue. It also made Pereira the huge global superstar he is now. The UFC had a chance to recreate that excitement with former GLORY kickboxing champion Artem Vakhitov, but it seems unlikely now.

Vakhitov is a former rival of Pereira and was eager to continue that rivalry in UFC. Last year, he participated in Dana White’s Contender Series, and successfully earned a UFC contract. However, recent updates has suggested that the Russian fighter declined the UFC’s offer and has also given his reasons in detail. 

Obviously I was delighted to win my fight on DWCS and get offered a contract. It was cool that Alex was there also. It felt like the trilogy fight was very close. Under their protocols, they were only able to offer me the standard contract given to all DWCS signings…UFC’s rules left no room for adjustments. I respect their structure. But I am a prizefighter, and I have a family to support. I have a limited window to make the most of my career. 

Artem Vakhitov via MMA Fighting 
YouTube video

Vakhitov and Pereira had a fierce kickboxing rivalry, splitting two fights in Glory, and Vakhitov winning their second bout. ‘Poatan’ won their first fight by controversial decision, but Vakhitov avenged the loss, reclaiming the Glory Light Heavyweight Championship. Their rivalry showcased elite striking, with Vakhitov’s technical style clashing against Pereira’s devastating power, making their fights highly competitive.

After watching Pereira’s UFC glory, Vakhitov was critical about the Brazilian’s fighting style. The Russian mentioned that the UFC lacked quality strikers who couldn’t stand in front of ‘Poatan.’ While Pereira dominated the light heavyweight division, his last loss at UFC 313 definitely has raised doubts among experts. 

Israel Adesanya reacts to Alex Pereira’s loss 

Magomed Ankalaev defeated Alex Pereira via unanimous decision at UFC 313, becoming the new light heavyweight champion. Pereira started strong with effective calf kicks, aiming to compromise Ankalaev’s mobility. However, Ankalaev adjusted by applying forward pressure and engaging Pereira in clinches against the cage. 

Alex Pereira loses to Magomed Ankalaev
Alex Pereira loses to Magomed Ankalaev (via X)

This strategy limited Pereira’s striking opportunities and allowed Ankalaev to control the fight’s pace. Going into the fight, Israel Adesanya picked Pereira to win and was disappointed after the loss. He shared his live reaction on his YouTube, which caught the attention of fans. 

The Round 2 might have played a factor just because he dropped him. But again, holding against the fence, I don’t really remember him getting any takedowns. It was a competitive fight, back-and-forth. It was good for both of them. They’re both going to level up, but I’m sure he’s going to get a rematch. Spin the block.

Israel Adesanya via his YouTube channel 
YouTube video

As Adesanya had predicted, the much-anticipated rematch between Pereira and Ankalaev is already in discussion. According to the Russian fighter, he has already signed the contract and remains ready for the rematch. Pereira seems to be ready for it, but there are several doubts about his comeback. 

Can Alex Pereira reclaim his title? 

Alex Pereira changed the game with his elite kickboxing, lethal left hook, and rapid rise in the UFC. His aggressive striking, precise counterattacks, and fearless style made him a dominant force. By defeating champions like Israel Adesanya and winning titles quickly, he redefined how strikers succeed in MMA’s highest level.

Alex Pereira's downfall after recent loss
Alex Pereira’s downfall after recent loss (via X)

He became a pay-per-view star and CEO Dana White was incredibly impressed by the Brazilian. At UFC 313, Pereira joined the rare, ‘The one, the only’ club, which sparked debate in the MMA community. ‘Poatan’ needs to stuff the takedowns and stop going on the backfoot to have any chance of winning the rematch. Otherwise, he might not reclaim his title.

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