Former UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland believes Alex Pereira has a clear path to defeat Magomed Ankalaev in a potential rematch, despite Pereira’s loss to Ankalaev at UFC 313 in March. The focus keyword Sean Strickland on Alex Pereira beating Magomed Ankalaev highlights the strategy Strickland outlined following Pereira’s recent setback.
What Happened in the First Fight Between Pereira and Ankalaev
At UFC 313, Pereira risked his light heavyweight title against the Russian challenger Magomed Ankalaev, who was seeking his first championship win. Although Pereira aimed to secure a fourth successful defense, Ankalaev’s relentless pressure proved decisive, leading to a unanimous decision victory for the Russian. This marked Pereira’s first loss at light heavyweight and handed Ankalaev the championship belt.
Insights from Sean Strickland on How Pereira Can Turn the Tables
In an interview with Red Corner MMA, Sean Strickland provided a detailed analysis of what Pereira needs to change if given another chance to face Ankalaev. Strickland acknowledged Ankalaev’s exceptional skills but expressed confidence in Pereira’s ability to adjust and come out on top in a rematch.
Ankalaev is just so f*cking good,
Strickland said.
I think a couple of things. I think Alex has a great chance of beating him in the rematch. I think Alex goes too hard. I mean, how many title defenses did he have? Going up and down weight classes, where Ankalaev rides the bench for a certain amount of time. Like, being that active and on top of that being a superstar. Like, no one knows who the f*ck Ankalaev is. Ankalaev walks down the street, no one knows who the f*ck that guy is.
—Sean Strickland, Former UFC Middleweight Champion
Strickland emphasized the pressure that Pereira faces as a superstar in contrast to Ankalaev’s low-profile lifestyle, suggesting that this difference affects mental readiness:
Alex is a superstar. He can’t leave his house without someone saying, ‘Oh, sh*t, there’s Alex, should we take a picture?’ It kind of takes a toll on the mind. Where you take Ankalaev who just lives in a f*cking cave somewhere, I don’t know where the f*ck that guy is from. He doesn’t have to deal with the same pressures of being famous as you do in the U.S. So I think Alex, if he just takes a step back, clears his brain, comes in fresh, stop traveling all over the f*cking world, I think he has a legitimate shot of beating him.
—Sean Strickland, Former UFC Middleweight Champion
Current Status and What Lies Ahead for the Light Heavyweight Title
The details concerning Ankalaev’s next title defense remain undisclosed, and whether Pereira will receive a rematch is yet to be confirmed. Pereira recently posted on social media, denying claims of frustration directed at the UFC and blaming a hack for misleading statements. This has led to speculation about his standing with the promotion and the possibility of him being overlooked for the upcoming light heavyweight title bout.
Strickland’s remarks highlight the psychological and strategic adjustments Pereira must make to reclaim the title, underscoring the challenges elite fighters face beyond physical confrontation. If Pereira can refocus and minimize distractions, his chances against Ankalaev may improve significantly.