Oleksandr Usyk sidelined for super fight as Magomed Ankalaev ruins Alex Pereira’s plans 

After losing to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313, top superstar Alex Pereira lost out on his opportunity to fight Oleksandr Usyk in a boxing bout.

Oleksandr Usyk sidelined for super fight as Magomed Ankalaev ruins Alex Pereira’s plans 

Alex Pereira's loss against Magomed Ankalaev caused him to give up on the Oleksandr Usyk bout (via Imago/X)

Alex Pereira‘s growth in the UFC has been monumental in the last few years. Going into UFC 313, the fighter wanted to keep the momentum and potentially fight Oleksandr Usyk in a boxing bout. However, the reality turned out to be different as the Brazilian lost his light heavyweight bout against Magomed Ankalaev. 

Following his incredible form and three consecutive knockout finishes, Pereira was the fan favorite to win against Ankalaev. The Russian, however, came prepared and stuck to his strategy throughout the fight. His determination was too much for Pereira who lost out on his dream fights due to the loss. In a recent Interview, the fighter shared his plans after potentially defeating Ankalaev. 

Maybe defend the belt. But if I could go in like after that choose, not my weight class. It’d be either fight for the heavyweight in the UFC, or fight Usyk for boxing.

Alex Pereira via The Ariel Helwani Show 
YouTube video

Usyk has expressed interest in boxing Pereira due to the Brazilian’s elite striking skills, UFC success, and kickboxing background. The boxing heavyweight champion saw it as a crossover challenge with the potential to earn millions of dollars. The matchup would have generated massive hype. However, following his loss to Ankalaev, this superfight will have to be put on halt.

Apart from that, Pereira planned to move to heavyweight and challenge champion Jon Jones. Dana White was also excited for this superfight. However, Pereira’s loss to Ankalaev changed everything, making the fight unlikely. Jones also expressed disappointment as he wanted to face ‘Poatan.’ For now, Pereira is extremely focused on regaining his lost title.

Alex Pereira believes he deserves the immediate rematch more than anybody else 

Immediate title rematches are rare in the UFC, happening only for dominant champions or controversial decisions. Dana White prefers fresh matchups instead and urges fighters to earn another shot by winning again. This keeps divisions competitive and prevents repeated fights from slowing down contender progress in rankings.

Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev immediate rematch
Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev immediate rematch (via Instagram)

Recently, champions such as Leon Edwards, Aljamain Sterling, and Sean Strickland didn’t get an immediate rematch after losing. However, Alex Pereira has done enough to rightfully ask for the immediate rematch. In a recent interview, the Brazilian fighter shed light on his relationship with the UFC and his credentials as a top fighter. 

I feel like an immediate rematch is right after everything that I’ve done for this division in the UFC. That’s what we are all deciding. 

Alex Pereira via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Over the last few years, the UFC was struggling to get new superstars who would sell more pay-per-view views. It was Pereira who somehow filled that void by becoming a major pay-per-view draw with his thrilling knockouts and rivalries. His title fights brought significant revenue, proving his star power. Pereira’s aggressive style and championship success made him a fan favorite. 

Why UFC needs fighters with super stardom 

The UFC has struggled to create new superstars in recent years, relying on veterans like Conor McGregor and Jon Jones for major pay-per-view sales. While fighters like Alex Pereira, Sean O’Malley, and Islam Makhachev have gained popularity, none have reached mainstream superstardom. The lack of charismatic personalities and crossover appeal has hurt the UFC’s ability to generate blockbuster events. 

UFC in need of top superstars
UFC in need of top superstars (via Imago)

Additionally, frequent fighter pullouts, injuries, and matchmaking issues have prevented consistent star-building. Without new megastars, UFC pay-per-view numbers have remained inconsistent. The promotion needs fresh, marketable fighters who can captivate casual fans and carry the company into the next era. 

Lately, there have been several complaints regarding lackluster bouts and fight cards that aren’t attractive to fans. Fans have often criticized the UFC by choosing other promotions over it. However, given the massive resources, it won’t be surprising to see the promotion getting back on track.

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