Alex Pereira had one of the best years back in 2024. Defending his title multiple times, Pereira emerged as one of the dominant UFC fighters. Soon, a superfight between him and Jon Jones was heavily rumored. In fact, Dana White himself looked quite interested in Pereira’s probable move to heavyweight. Unfortunately, it all came crashing down following a defeat against Magomed Ankalaev. Now, reflecting on a potential match against Pereira, heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall had some advice to share.
Tom Aspinall pointed out that the main focus of ‘Poatan’ must not be a heavyweight fight. In fact, at the moment, he must look to regain his light heavyweight title first. That way, Pereira would establish his stronghold in the division. He can then think of a move up the division and chase glory.
“He’s got business to do at light-heavy. He just lost his title in a tough fight… If I was in his position, I’d want to get that one back first,” said Aspinall.
Tom Aspinall on a potential fight against Alex Pereira at heavyweight:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 27, 2025
“He’s got business to do at light-heavy. He just lost his title in a tough fight…
If I was in his position, I’d want to get that one back first.”
🎥 @espnmma #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/YrcQsQFocq
Surely, Pereira too, has expressed his desire to reclaim his title from Magomed Ankalaev. On the contrary, Ankalaev too, has sent a stern warning to Alex Pereira.
Magomed Ankalaev Puts Alex Pereira On Notice
Magomed Ankalaev has been keeping things hot from his end. Since his championship run, Ankalaev has kept on taking shots at Alex Pereira. And now, when Pereira confirmed his comeback, the Russian delivered a stern warning. Ankalaev stated that he is ready to take on Pereira in October. However, he also vowed to end the former light heavyweight champion’s career.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
“October I will close the page and this guy career no mercy,” Ankalaev wrote.
🚨 Magomed Ankalaev teases a rematch with Alex Pereira in October 👀👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 26, 2025
"October I will close the page and this guy career no mercy." pic.twitter.com/hjpMhBFuOx
Thus, with things getting quite interesting, it remains to be seen what happens next.
Also Read: Alex Pereira Believes Small Adjustments Will Be Enough For Magomed Ankalaev Rematch
