Magomed Ankalaev Boldly Claims UFC Superstar Alex Pereira Is Never Fighting Again

Newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev believes Alex Pereira won't be fighting anymore.

Magomed Ankalaev Boldly Claims UFC Superstar Alex Pereira Is Never Fighting Again

Magomed Ankalaev talks about his future fights irrespective of Alex Pereira's update (via Imago)

The UFC light heavyweight division was previously ruled by Alex Pereira, who dominated everyone who came his way with ease. However, at UFC 313, the fighter lost his title to Magomed Ankalaev in a unanimous decision loss that surprised many. Following that bout, fans are eagerly waiting for a title rematch. However, recent developments have clearly suggested the situation may change.

Right after the fight, Pereira called for a rematch as he wasn’t satisfied with the results and demanded another opportunity. CEO Dana White had also given the green light, signaling his approval for the rematch between the two elite-level light heavyweight contenders. In a recent post, Ankalaev mentioned that Pereira isn’t gonna fight him anymore, leaving fans confused and wondering what’s next.

Alex done he never coming back let’s move on June July August I said yes.

Magomed Ankalaev via X

Ankalaev was also ready for the challenge and revealed that he had already signed the contract to face Pereira again soon. While Pereira previously verbally agreed to the fight, there has not been any official update confirming the rematch will truly happen. On top of that, his recent controversy with the promotion has created uncertainty, raising questions about his current standing within UFC management.

Pereira initially called out UFC for being disrespectful but later claimed his account was hacked, causing confusion among fans and media. The UFC reportedly wanted the fight during International Fight Week, aiming for a blockbuster summer event with a massive promotional push behind it.

This was due to Islam Makhachev moving up to the 170-pound division, which left the Ilia Topuria superfight in limbo. Ankalaev vs. ‘Poatan’ was likely the next best option till Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira materialized. However, Pereira needed more time, creating uncertainty. Now, fans wait to see how the promotion makes this fight happen.

Former rival speaks on Alex Pereira’s title rematch

Alex Pereira’s UFC journey is one of the most dominant and motivational stories witnessed in recent years of the organization. Behind his meteoric rise stood Israel Adesanya, who unknowingly motivated ‘Poatan’ to chase greatness and ultimately become a UFC world champion. Their rivalry began in kickboxing, then moved into MMA, grabbing worldwide attention due to their fierce and competitive personal history.

Alex Pereira's dominance in UFC
Alex Pereira’s dominance in UFC (via X)

Pereira’s victories over Adesanya fueled his legendary rise, proving he could conquer one of UFC’s most dominant and skilled champions ever. Following that, Izzy got his revenge by knocking out Pereira at UFC 287, reclaiming the belt spectacularly and emotionally. In a recent podcast on his YouTube channel, Adesanya discussed Pereira and shared thoughts on the Magomed Ankalaev rematch.

I’m so proud of the guy, what he’s done. It’s like I created a monster. He showed why he is who he is across two weight classes. I can’t wait to see the next fight with him and Ankalaev again. I think it’ll be another hard one, but I think he can get it done, because it wasn’t a complete washout for that fight. He’s exponentially getting better, as well.

Israel Adesanya via his YouTube channel

In their last outing, Ankalaev came with a strict strategy and consistently stuck to it throughout all five grueling championship rounds. He shot multiple takedowns which the Brazilian managed to defend, but it kept Pereira constantly on the defensive and reacting. As a result, Pereira couldn’t utilize his striking to its fullest efficiency, limiting his offense and effectiveness inside the octagon entirely.

He eventually lost the bout and his aura, appearing more human than ever before after dominating the division so convincingly. According to his sparring partner and former champion Sean Strickland, Pereira’s popularity also distracted him from training. While fans are still confident about Pereira’s comeback, his confidence will definitely play a huge role in it.

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