Alex Pereira was supposed to move up to the heavyweight division. That way, he would have gotten the opportunity to become the very first champ-champ-champ in UFC history. But in order to do that, the conditions were pretty simple. ‘Poatan’ had to win his UFC 313 bout against Magomed Ankalaev. Unfortunately, as Bruce Buffer announced the name of the winner, Ankalaev got the belt on his waist. However, even then, Chael Sonnen is positive about Pereira’s heavyweight run.
But there’s a small obstacle to defying the opportunity. Sonnen stated that Pereira is still very much capable of a heavyweight run. His versatility in fighting makes him a prime candidate to adapt to the heavyweight scenario. However, Sonnen said that if UFC wants to follow a traditional way, then Pereira will have to reclaim his light heavyweight title first.
“All my opinions are gone if it just has to do with straight competition. Keep a guy at his weight [Pereira at light heavyweight], fight the guy he has failed against [Ankalaev], that’s what a true competitor would do,” said Chael Sonnen.
Meanwhile, the news that the UFC is already planning a rematch is out. Shedding light on the same, Magomed Anakalev threw some serious shade on Pereira.
Magomed Ankalaev Wants Alex Pereira To ‘Fight’ In Rematch
Magomed Ankalaev did predict his future ahead of UFC 313. Ahead of the bout, Ankalaev constantly stated that he would become the new light heavyweight champion. And while he did prove himself right, there was widespread controversy surrounding the judges’ decision. Most of the fans felt that it was Pereira who actually won.
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As the rematch is being worked upon, Magomed Ankalaev made a sarcastic comment for Pereira.
“(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, with one of the biggest fights getting a rematch soon, it remains to be seen how things will pan out in the coming days.
Also Read: Alex Pereira Gives A Hilarious Reply To His Ex-Girlfriend Mocking Him For UFC 313 Loss
