Magomed Ankalaev has wasted no time in setting up his next fight. Just days after dethroning Alex Pereira at UFC 313, the newly crowned light heavyweight champion has confirmed that negotiations for an immediate rematch are already underway. While Ankalaev is open to defending his belt against Pereira again, the decision could impact other top contenders in the division, including former champion Jiri Prochazka, who has also expressed interest in a title shot.
With the UFC yet to make an official announcement, fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of whether Pereira will get his chance at redemption or if Ankalaev will move on to a new challenge.
A Controversial Win and a Quick Rematch on the Horizon?
Ankalaev’s victory over Pereira was met with mixed reactions, with many believing the fight was too close to call. While Ankalaev secured a unanimous decision win, the scorecards (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some argued that Pereira had done enough to win, while others felt Ankalaev’s dominant control and wrestling earned him the belt fair and square.
Immediately after the fight, Pereira voiced his frustration about the decision, questioning the UFC’s judging criteria. In his post-fight interview, he stated, “Putting me up against the cage, he (Ankalaev) didn’t really do anything. Giving him the win with a game plan like that incentivizes fighters to play it safe.”
Pereira’s frustration, coupled with his impressive three title defenses in six months, has led many to believe he deserves an instant rematch. It now appears the UFC is leaning in that direction, as Ankalaev himself confirmed that discussions have begun.
“About the rematch, negotiations are already underway,” Ankalaev told Russian media after returning home to Dagestan. “We agreed in advance that if they [Pereira and his team] want a rematch, we are ready.”
If the rematch is booked, it will likely take place in October at the UFC’s annual Abu Dhabi card, where Ankalaev would have the home-crowd advantage.
What About Jiri Prochazka? Ankalaev Calls Him a “Fraud”
While the UFC appears to be favoring a Pereira rematch, former champion Jiri Prochazka has been pushing for another shot at the title. However, Ankalaev seems uninterested in facing Prochazka, going as far as calling him a “fraud” and stating that he doesn’t deserve another title fight just yet.
“I think you are a fraud, and so many guys deserve it more than you,“ Ankalaev said in response to Prochazka’s title ambitions. “You need to go and win some fights.”
Ankalaev even took to social media, doubling down on his stance. He tweeted,
“Alex sent this guy to the hospital twice. He made him sleep. He should not talk or do any interviews. Quiet. Alex is next, or whatever UFC wants. I don’t care.”
With Ankalaev’s strong preference for a rematch against Pereira and the UFC showing interest in running it back, Prochazka may need to wait or secure another big win before getting his shot at the belt.
What’s Next for the UFC Light Heavyweight Division?
As things stand, Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira 2 seems to be the fight that makes the most sense for the UFC. Pereira, despite losing at UFC 313, remains one of the most dangerous strikers in the division, and his impressive championship run cannot be ignored. A rematch would allow him to make the necessary adjustments and potentially reclaim his belt.
On the other hand, Ankalaev is eager to prove that his victory was no fluke. He has made it clear that he is ready for anyone but sees no real challengers outside of Pereira. He even stated:
If there is no injury, I could do three or four fights a year. I don’t see anyone right now who can challenge me.
With the UFC yet to officially confirm the fight, fans are left wondering: Will Pereira get his rematch, or will the UFC throw a curveball and introduce a new contender? One thing is for sure—Magomed Ankalaev has no plans of giving up his belt anytime soon.
Who do you think should be Ankalaev’s next opponent?
