Magomed Ankalaev is preparing to defend his UFC light heavyweight title in a highly anticipated rematch against Alex Pereira, likely scheduled for October. The forthcoming Alex Pereira UFC rematch October is gaining significant attention as both fighters prepare to meet again following their first encounter earlier this year.
Ali Abdelaziz, Ankalaev’s manager, shared on Thursday that he expects the Russian fighter to return to the octagon in October for their second bout. Two major pay-per-view events are planned that month: UFC 320 on October 4 in Las Vegas and UFC 321 on October 25 in Abu Dhabi. Although fighting in Abu Dhabi may be more convenient for Ankalaev, Pereira’s wide fanbase could influence a Las Vegas venue.
Manager Ali Abdelaziz’s Perspective on the Upcoming Fight
Abdelaziz expressed strong confidence in Ankalaev’s chances and believes the rematch will be even more challenging for Pereira than their first contest. He highlighted Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set, emphasizing his striking, wrestling, and grappling capabilities as key advantages.
I think Alex is a good fighter. I think he’s a real fighter. He’s a lion,
Abdelaziz said on the Pound-for-Pound podcast.
But in a way, Ankalaev should have been champion two or three years ago. Alex would have never been the champion. I’m going to tell you something — if they fight again, and they will fight again, probably in October — it’s going to be worse for Alex.
He noted that while Pereira has a reputation as a powerful striker who has knocked out several opponents, many of those were considered mediocre strikers, implying that Ankalaev’s well-rounded style is a tougher challenge.
Alex, he’s a fighter, but now Ankalaev has the confidence. He understands [Alex] was a scary guy, touching people and knocking them out, but he fought a whole bunch of mediocre strikers. None of these guys were high-level strikers. Ankalaev, he can wrestle, he can grapple, and he can strike. Actually, I think Ankalaev is more of a striker than a grappler. We [saw] him; he hurt Pereira] in the fight. Alex didn’t hurt him. I’m going to tell you something, when you have the confidence to hurt people or you start knocking people out, it’s a feeling.
Ankalaev’s Current Momentum and Title Defense Ambitions
Ankalaev remains unbeaten in his last 14 fights, including his unanimous decision victory over Pereira in their March matchup. Since winning the title, he has been vocal about wanting to stay active and schedule the rematch promptly to maintain momentum as champion.
Abdelaziz’s belief in Ankalaev’s dominance extends beyond this upcoming fight, conveying that the fighter’s confidence will make him a continued threat in the division.
I think Ankalaev right now is going to be very dangerous,
Abdelaziz said.
And remember, Alex is 38 years old. He travels all over the place. He has a great coach. I like his coach a lot. I think he’s a very good guy, but I think this is Ankalaev’s time.
Implications of the Bout and UFC Landscape
Abdelaziz also criticized the UFC’s handling of Ankalaev’s rise, suggesting that officials and matchmakers such as Hunter Campbell and Mick Maynard delayed his ascent to champion status. Now, with the title in hand, Ankalaev’s position is more secure and demands respect.
It should have been Ankalaev’s time. Hunter Campbell, Mick Maynard all the UFC, they was all sandbagging him and now they know what’s coming. They were praying for [Ankalaev] to lose.
The rematch will not only test Ankalaev’s ability to defend his title but also mark a critical juncture for Pereira’s career in the UFC light heavyweight division. This October’s fight carries significant implications for both fighters, potentially reshaping the division’s hierarchy and highlighting Ankalaev’s growing stature within the organization.