Alex Pereira lost title to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313: Is there still a chance for Oleksandr Usyk fight?

Alex Pereira, one of the UFC’s most feared strikers, has suffered a significant setback after losing to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313. This defeat has sparked intense discussions about his future in mixed martial arts and whether a high-profile boxing match against heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is still a viable option. While Pereira remains one of the most dangerous fighters in combat sports, his recent loss raises questions about his next move. Could he bounce back in the UFC, pursue a rematch with Ankalaev, or transition to boxing to take on Usyk?

UFC 313: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev – A Costly Defeat

Fight Breakdown: Pereira Struggles Against Ankalaev’s Grappling

Heading into UFC 313, Pereira was the reigning UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, known for his devastating knockout power and elite striking skills. However, Magomed Ankalaev, a well-rounded fighter with exceptional grappling, had the perfect game plan to neutralize Pereira’s strengths.

From the opening round, Ankalaev imposed his wrestling-heavy approach, consistently taking Pereira to the ground and controlling him from dominant positions. While Pereira managed to land some significant strikes, Ankalaev’s superior grappling and clinch work prevented the Brazilian from finding his rhythm.

By the later rounds, Pereira appeared visibly fatigued, and Ankalaev continued to dominate the exchanges. The judges ultimately scored the fight in Ankalaev’s favor with a unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47), crowning him the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.

How This Loss Impacts Pereira’s MMA Career

This loss is a major blow for Pereira, who had rapidly climbed the ranks of the UFC after capturing titles in two weight divisions. Although he remains one of the sport’s most feared strikers, his vulnerabilities in grappling and wrestling have been exposed once again.

For Pereira, this defeat could mean:

1. A potential rematch with Ankalaev. Given how competitive the fight was, the UFC might consider booking an immediate rematch, especially if Pereira remains a top contender.
2. A shift back to the middleweight division. If he struggles at light heavyweight, he could consider dropping back to 185 pounds, where he once ruled as champion.
3. A move to boxing. With his elite striking skills, Pereira might explore a crossover into boxing, where a mega-fight with Oleksandr Usyk has been rumored for months.

Can Pereira Get a Rematch Against Ankalaev?

UFC CEO Dana White’s Response

Following the fight, UFC CEO Dana White acknowledged that Pereira still has a strong case for another title shot. White noted that while Ankalaev controlled most of the fight, Pereira had his moments and could work his way back to a rematch.

However, for Pereira to secure a second shot at Ankalaev, he will likely need to:

• Improve his grappling. Wrestling defense has been his Achilles’ heel, and unless he shores up that weakness, he will continue to struggle against elite wrestlers.
• Defeat a top contender. If an immediate rematch isn’t granted, Pereira might need to fight another top-five opponent to reestablish himself as the rightful challenger.

Could Pereira Face Oleksandr Usyk in Boxing?

How Did the Pereira-Usyk Rumors Begin?

Before UFC 313, speculation was swirling about a potential crossover fight between Pereira and Oleksandr Usyk. The idea of the UFC’s most dangerous striker testing himself against one of boxing’s most technically gifted heavyweights captured the imagination of fight fans.

While Pereira has an elite kickboxing background, transitioning to professional boxing against a world-class champion like Usyk would be an entirely different challenge.

Why the Fight Might Not Happen Now

With Pereira losing to Ankalaev, his stock in the combat sports world has taken a hit. This could significantly lower his bargaining power for a blockbuster fight with Usyk. While Pereira remains a big name, he may need to rebuild momentum before a high-profile boxing debut.

Another key issue is Usyk’s immediate schedule. The Ukrainian heavyweight is currently focused on his highly anticipated fight with Tyson Fury for the undisputed heavyweight title. If Usyk defeats Fury, he will have plenty of other high-profile opponents in boxing before considering an MMA fighter like Pereira.

Challenges of Transitioning to Boxing

While Pereira is one of the best strikers in MMA, boxing presents unique challenges:

1. Cardio and endurance. Boxing requires different pacing and conditioning compared to MMA, where rounds are shorter but involve grappling exchanges.
2. Pure boxing skills. While Pereira’s striking is world-class in MMA, Usyk is a master of movement, defense, and counter-punching—attributes that could overwhelm Pereira in a boxing ring.
3. Weight difference. Usyk fights at heavyweight, meaning Pereira would need to bulk up or Usyk would have to cut weight to make the fight viable.

What’s Next for Alex Pereira?

With the Usyk fight looking unlikely in the immediate future, Pereira must decide his next step carefully. He has three primary options:

1. Stay in the UFC and Chase a Rematch with Ankalaev

If Pereira wants to reclaim UFC gold, he must focus on improving his ground game and working his way back into title contention. A rematch with Ankalaev could happen within a year if Pereira wins one or two fights convincingly.

2. Move to Boxing and Start with a Lower-Level Opponent

Instead of jumping straight into a fight with Usyk, Pereira could transition to boxing by facing a lower-ranked heavyweight or cruiserweight fighter first. This would give him time to adapt to the sport and build experience before facing an elite boxer.

3. Drop Back to Middleweight

If Pereira struggles at light heavyweight, he could consider returning to middleweight, where he previously held the UFC title. However, cutting back down to 185 pounds could be difficult, given his current size and frame.

Final Thoughts: Can Pereira Rebuild After This Loss?

Alex Pereira’s loss to Magomed Ankalaev is a significant hurdle in his career, but it does not mean his time as a top-tier fighter is over. He still possesses elite striking skills and the ability to make adjustments.

While a fight with Oleksandr Usyk seems unlikely in the short term, Pereira remains an exciting crossover prospect in combat sports. If he chooses to stay in the UFC, a rematch with Ankalaev or a battle against another top contender could be the key to regaining his title.

Ultimately, the decision lies with Pereira. Does he focus on reclaiming his spot in the UFC, or does he take a risk and transition to boxing? Either way, fight fans will be watching closely to see how one of MMA’s most electrifying strikers responds to adversity.