Magomed Ankalaev has recently solidified his place in UFC history as the light heavyweight champion following a decisive unanimous decision victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 313. Just weeks after this crowning achievement, Ankalaev is already announcing plans for his first title defense. “I have a date and I accepted already, I hope my opponent will accept too,” he told his followers on social media. The mood is optimistic, as Ankalaev makes it clear: "This time there will be no 5 rounds, I don’t get paid by the hour #BIGANK.”
Speculation is rife regarding who will face Ankalaev next, with many believing that it will once again be Pereira. The Russian fighter has openly expressed his respect for Pereira, acknowledging his previous title reign and the fact that Pereira has defended his title successfully three times within the past year. “Alex when you’re ready to go again you deserve this,” Ankalaev stated on X just days ago, referring to the potential for a rematch.
Adding to the discussion, former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker offered insight into Ankalaev's motivations for pushing for this rematch. In his appearance on the MMArcade podcast, Whittaker suggested that Ankalaev's confidence has increased significantly following their initial bout. “I think the hype and confidence train that Pereira had, that if he touches you, you’re going to go out sort of vibe, is now moot-ish because Ankalaev didn’t die,” he remarked. Whittaker pointed out that Ankalaev's resilience in the face of Pereira's punches has likely altered the dynamics of their potential rematch. “All the boogeyman vibes, all the mysteries and uncertainties are now gone. I can beat him. He is very beatable, he is human, like anybody else.”
Whittaker continued, expressing his belief that if Ankalaev were to face Pereira again, the result would be significantly different. “I honestly think Ankalaev does better. I think it’s not as close as it just was. I don’t see the second fight going any differently.”
The narrative of Ankalaev and Pereira's rivalry is both thrilling and somewhat complicated, given their intertwined past. Their initial encounter dates back to December 10, 2022, when Ankalaev fought Jan Blachowicz for the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 282. That bout ended in a shocking split draw, with judges unable to determine a victor. This left the division in limbo and ultimately led to Glover Teixeira claiming the title against Jamahal Hill at UFC 283, a decision that surprised many fans and pundits alike.
Blachowicz himself has not forgotten the unfinished business from that contentious fight. Now out for two years due to injury, he is set to face Carlos Ulberg this Saturday at UFC London and is already looking ahead with ambition. “It’s normal [that the title] changes owners every couple of years. For me, it’s good because I have unfinished business with Ankalaev,” he stated at the pre-UFC London press conference. He emphasized the importance of his upcoming fight but made it clear that he has his sights set on reclaiming his shot against Ankalaev.
Yet, there remains a complication in Blachowicz's path, as Alex Pereira is also vying for a rematch after losing the title to Ankalaev at UFC 313. The upcoming circumstances have created a sort of chess match among the top light heavyweight contenders. Pereira seems intent on accepting Ankalaev's offer for a rematch, as indicated by his responses on social media shortly after Ankalaev's announcements. “Bora [Let’s go] Ali. Chama,” Pereira replied on Instagram, hinting at his willingness to engage further in this fierce rivalry.
This triangle of fighters—Ankalaev, Pereira, and Blachowicz—highlights the depths of competition in the UFC's light heavyweight division. As Dana White has outlined, it appears that the UFC is keen to fast-track the rematch that many fans are calling for, further intensifying the spotlight on Ankalaev as he steps into the octagon for his first title defense.
Despite the anticipation, the outcome of the rematch remains uncertain. Each fighter brings unique strengths, strategies, and psychological dynamics into their confrontations. Whittaker's comments illustrate how pivotal mindset can be in such high-stakes matchups, and it seems that Ankalaev's newfound confidence could transform the trajectory of their next fight. As the fights loom closer, the UFC community eagerly awaits confirmation of what promises to be another thrilling chapter in light heavyweight history.
While Blachowicz plans his comeback and aims for a rematch, the reality is clear: tensions are high as the title picture continues to evolve in this remarkably competitive weight class. With Ankalaev positioned firmly at the top, all eyes will be watching to see who he will ultimately defend his title against—and whether Pereira can reclaim his title or if a new challenger from the shadows, like Blachowicz, might emerge victorious.
