When the UFC 313 main event got underway, very few believed that Alex Pereira would be losing his title. But what followed afterward was a complete shocker. Going up against Magomed Ankalaev, ‘Poatan’ did not look to be in his element. With a somewhat lackluster performance, the title changed hands, crowning the Russian as the new champion.
However, the judges’ decision surprised fans and critics alike. They opined that Pereira might have still won the fight. With the speculations still going on, ‘Poatan’ decided to shed some light on the matter.
In a recent interaction, Pereira clarified that there will be an immediate rematch between the two. “I know there will be a rematch, they’re talking about it already… A lot of people contested there, and had their doubts… I’ll watch it from the outside and have my opinion,” said Pereira.
Alex Pereira speaks out following his loss at #UFC313:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 12, 2025
“I know there will be a rematch, they’re talking about it already…
A lot of people contested there, had their doubts… I’ll watch it from the outside and have my opinion.”
🎥 @AlexPereiraUFCpic.twitter.com/GKu4Iu5vmJ
In fact, the entire match looked quite timid. While Ankalaev constantly pressed forward, Pereira was unable to bring out his A-game. On the contrary, the Russian could not do much except rock Pereira a few times. Meanwhile, reacting to their rematch speculations, Ankalaev mocked Pereira again.
Magomed Ankalaev Mocks Alex Pereira
Magomed Ankalaev mocking the former light heavyweight champion is nothing new. Before their bout began, Anakalaev called ‘Poatan’ a “fake humble.” He also claimed to knock Pereira out to clinch the championship. While that did not happen, Ankalaev has once again lashed out at the former champ.
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“(Alex) was saying he wasn’t sure why the victory was given to me… Listen. I’m happy for a rematch, but maybe in the rematch, he can fight for real, not just run away the entire time,” Ankalaev said in the post-game presser.
🗣️ Magomed Ankalaev:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 9, 2025
“[Alex] was saying he wasn’t sure why the victory was given to me…
Listen. I’m happy for a rematch, but maybe in the rematch he can fight for real, not just run away the entire time.” 😳#UFC313pic.twitter.com/FeBJ5VNccc
Thus, the duo’s rivalry is far from over. With the rematch coming up soon, what happens next remains to be seen.
Also Read: Alex Pereira’s Ex-Girlfriend Takes Subtle Dig After Magomed Ankalaev Wins Title: ‘Karma’
