Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira in the works for a rematch as UFC matchmakers go deep into negotiations with both parties!
Just three days after UFC 313’s main event shocked fans worldwide, fans are already hearing whispers of an immediate rematch. Who could blame the promotion? When you have a fight as close as what fans saw last Saturday, with scorecards raising eyebrows and fans debating the outcome, you strike while the iron is hot.
Magomed Ankalaev’s journey to the top hasn’t been smooth sailing. The Dagestani fighter has long been considered the boogeyman of the division, highly skilled but often overlooked for title opportunities. His technical prowess and patient fighting style didn’t always win him fans. But everything changed at UFC 313 when he dethroned the previously unstoppable Alex Pereira in a five-round chess match that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Speaking to Russian media after returning home to a hero’s welcome in Makhachkala, Ankalaev dropped the news. He revealed that negotiations are already underway for a rematch with Alex Pereira.
“About the rematch, negotiations are already underway. It is not yet known who will be next but we agreed in advance that if they want a rematch then we are ready to do it again.”
That is the attitude of a true champion. No hesitation, no ducking challengers. The urgency behind booking this rematch makes perfect sense when you look at the scorecards. While Ankalaev won by unanimous decision, the margins were razor-thin. Two judges scored it 48-47, suggesting Pereira was competitive throughout. Moreover, fans would like to see a rematch between these two. And nothing fuels interest in a rematch quite like controversy!
Pereira’s case for an immediate rematch is strong. Before losing to Ankalaev, the Brazilian knockout artist had been on a tear through the division. He defended his title three times in just six months. This is a schedule that would make most champions break out in cold sweats.
His fourth fight in 11 months ended in defeat, but his activity and previous dominance have earned him the right to try and reclaim his throne without climbing the ladder again. Moreover, ‘Poatan’ has been a saviour for the UFC multiple times and they would like to honor him with a rematch.
There is another side of this: the financial side. Pereira is a fan favourite, with flashy KO’s and a great personality to go with it. As such, he sells Pay Per Views whenever he fights. This translates to high profits for the company as well.
The light heavyweight division is now getting excited with the possibility of this rematch. With Magomed Ankalaev’s technical mastery facing off against Pereira’s devastating power once more, fans are in for another treat whenever this rematch materializes. The only question now is: how soon can we see these two warriors run it back?
(Image Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie – Imagn Images)
