UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev has revealed that he has already accepted a date for his next fight, hinting at an imminent title defense that could be against former champion Alex Pereira. After clinching the championship at UFC 313, where he triumphed over Pereira, uncertainty looms regarding Ankalaev's next steps in the octagon.
In a surprising twist, Ankalaev took to Twitter on March 20, 2025, to announce his readiness for his upcoming bout. "I have a date and I accepted already, I hope my opponent will accept too. This time there will be no five rounds, I don’t get paid by the hour #BigANK," he tweeted. This announcement sent ripples through the mixed martial arts community as fans speculated on who his possible opponent might be.
Reactions to Ankalaev's previous fight were mixed, with many fans voicing their disappointment over the matchup at UFC 313 against Pereira. While Ankalaev delivered a solid performance to claim the title, the victory sparked debates among fans and pundits who felt the match was evenly contested, with some scoring it an even split. Given Pereira's accolades—having defended his belt three times prior and being awarded as the 2024 Fighter of the Year—many believe he deserves an immediate rematch.
As speculation circulates, UFC's announcement on the same day further fueled the excitement as the promotion confirmed plans to return to Abu Dhabi for an event slated for July 26, 2025. This venue is seen as a perfect backdrop for Ankalaev’s anticipated title defense.
The atmosphere is charged with expectations as fans await confirmation on Ankalaev's next opponent. The consensus points toward a rematch with Pereira who, despite the loss, remains a formidable contender in the light heavyweight division.
Ankalaev seems open to the idea of facing Pereira again, as indicated by his social media statements. Addressing the uncertainty, he emphasized his eagerness to finalize details, but expressed hope that his future opponent would also agree to the terms. His tweet clearly resonates with his desire for an exciting matchup that could possibly end in decisive fashion—no five-round decisions this time.
UFC president Dana White has traditionally embraced rematches as they tend to draw significant viewer interest, and fans may not have to wait long before official confirmation on Ankalaev's fight is released.
In light of these developments, the MMA community remains abuzz with discussion. Commentators have pointed out that Ankalaev's approach on social media not only engages fans but boosts his profile as a champion looking to make his mark in the octagon.
While some analysts caution that no fight is easy, they acknowledge that Ankalaev has demonstrated immense skill and fortitude in his climb to the top. With the most recent title acquisition under his belt, anticipation builds for what’s next for the champion, whose fighting style has continued to evolve.
Could there be a shake-up in the division, or will Ankalaev reaffirm his status as the fighter to beat? One thing is for sure: if Ankalaev's rematch with Pereira comes to fruition, fans can expect a showdown that propels the light heavyweight division further into the spotlight.
As one of the sport's brightest stars, Magomed Ankalaev is not only securing victories but also carving out a legacy within the UFC. With his upcoming fight potentially around the corner, the excitement encapsulates the unpredictability and thrill that defines mixed martial arts.
For the latest updates on UFC events and fighter news, stay tuned as the situation develops. Fans hope to see a confirmation soon that promises to deliver another unforgettable moment in the world of MMA.
