The ultimate 2 vs. 2 MMA showdown: Magomed Ankalaev and Tom Aspinall vs. Alex Pereira and Jon Jones

In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), fans are always eager to explore hypothetical matchups. But what if the UFC introduced a game-changing format—2 vs. 2 fights? Imagine the possibilities: two fighters working together to outmaneuver and dominate a pair of equally dangerous opponents. One of the most intriguing fantasy matchups fans have debated is a duo fight featuring Magomed Ankalaev and Tom Aspinall against Alex Pereira and Jon Jones. Each of these fighters is a powerhouse in their own right, but how would their skills, styles, and strategies blend in a team-based battle? Let’s break it all down: fighter strengths, strategic advantages, and who would likely emerge victorious in this MMA dream match.

The Fighters: Breaking Down the Matchup

Team 1: Magomed Ankalaev & Tom Aspinall

Magomed Ankalaev (Light Heavyweight Champion, Elite Striker & Grappler)

Magomed Ankalaev has established himself as one of the most well-rounded fighters in the light heavyweight division. With a record of dominance and a recent victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 313, Ankalaev is a master of controlling distance, striking with precision, and shutting down opponents with his elite grappling.

Strengths:
✔ High fight IQ
✔ Exceptional footwork and counter-striking
✔ Strong wrestling and Sambo background
✔ Knockout power combined with technical patience

Tom Aspinall (Interim Heavyweight Champion, Explosive & Agile Fighter)

Tom Aspinall is one of the fastest-rising heavyweights in the UFC. He possesses a rare blend of agility, power, and submission skills, making him an unpredictable and dangerous opponent. His quick finishes in the heavyweight division prove he’s not just powerful—he’s also incredibly efficient.

Strengths:
✔ Fast, precise boxing for a heavyweight
✔ Strong ground game (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt)
✔ Athletic and mobile, unlike traditional heavyweights
✔ Excellent fight adaptability

Team 2: Alex Pereira & Jon Jones

Alex Pereira (Former Light Heavyweight Champion, Devastating Striker)

A former kickboxing champion, Alex Pereira is one of the hardest hitters in MMA today. Though he lost his title to Ankalaev, his knockout ability remains one of the most feared weapons in the UFC. He’s relatively new to grappling but has been improving with every fight.

Strengths:
✔ Unmatched knockout power
✔ Highly technical striking (kickboxing precision)
✔ Strong mental composure in high-pressure fights
✔ Increasingly improving takedown defense

Jon Jones (UFC Heavyweight Champion, Arguably the GOAT)

Jon “Bones” Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. After dominating the light heavyweight division for over a decade, he moved up to heavyweight and captured the title with ease. Jones’ ability to adapt to any opponent and control fights is what makes him so dangerous.

Strengths:
✔ Unpredictable striking with creative techniques
✔ Elite wrestling and submission game
✔ High-level fight IQ and strategic adaptability
✔ Iron chin and durability

The Battle of Styles: How the Fight Could Play Out

In a 2 vs. 2 format, the usual rules of engagement change. Fighters would have to: Work seamlessly as a team Use tag-team strategies to exploit weaknesses Develop a balance between offense and defense

Striking Battles: Pereira & Jones Have the Edge

Pereira’s striking power and accuracy could pose a serious threat to Ankalaev and Aspinall. Meanwhile, Jones’ unorthodox kicks, elbows, and long reach would allow him to create distance and disrupt attacks. However, Ankalaev is an exceptional counter-striker, meaning he could capitalize on Pereira’s aggression. Aspinall, with his fast hands and movement, could pressure Pereira and force mistakes.

Advantage: Slightly favors Pereira & Jones due to Pereira’s power and Jones’ reach.

Grappling & Wrestling: Huge Advantage for Ankalaev & Aspinall

If the fight hits the ground, Team Ankalaev & Aspinall would hold a massive advantage. Jones has fantastic wrestling, but with two elite ground fighters against him, even he would have difficulty escaping bad positions.

Advantage: Ankalaev & Aspinall due to superior wrestling and submissions.

Team Chemistry & Strategy: Who Works Better Together?

• Ankalaev & Aspinall: Both fighters are calculated, technical, and methodical. They would likely stick to a disciplined game plan, focusing on controlled striking exchanges before dragging the fight to the ground.
• Pereira & Jones: A mix of an aggressive striker (Pereira) and a strategic tactician (Jones). Their success would depend on whether they can keep the fight standing and land fight-ending strikes before getting taken down.

Advantage: Ankalaev & Aspinall due to a more balanced and cohesive style.

How the Fight Could Play Out: Scenarios & Predictions

Scenario 1: Early KO by Pereira (Team Pereira & Jones Win)

Pereira is known for explosive knockouts, and if he lands a clean shot early on Ankalaev or Aspinall, it could spell trouble. With Jones keeping distance and creating openings, a brutal left hook from Pereira could end the fight in round one.

Likelihood: 25%

Scenario 2: Ankalaev & Aspinall Grind Them Down (Team Ankalaev & Aspinall Win)

Ankalaev keeps Pereira at bay with precise counter-striking, while Aspinall pressures Jones with takedown attempts. Eventually, Aspinall secures a dominant position, leading to a ground-and-pound finish or submission.

Likelihood: 50%

Scenario 3: Jones’ Tactical Genius Turns the Tide (Team Pereira & Jones Win)

If Jones finds a way to neutralize Aspinall’s wrestling and keep Pereira from getting taken down, he could outpoint them with volume striking and clinch control. Over time, his creativity in the cage might create an opening for a finish.

Likelihood: 25%

Final Verdict: Who Would Win?

While Pereira and Jones have the striking advantage, the superior wrestling and well-rounded skill set of Ankalaev & Aspinall make them the favorites in this fantasy matchup.

Final Prediction: Ankalaev & Aspinall win via ground control and submission in the later rounds.

Would 2 vs. 2 MMA Ever Become a Reality?

The UFC has never experimented with tag-team fighting, but in other combat sports like Japanese MMA (PRIDE, RIZIN), unique matchups have taken place. Could the UFC ever introduce 2 vs. 2 fights as a special event? Many fans believe that while pure MMA might not adapt this format, organizations like Power Slap, BKFC, or celebrity fight leagues might experiment with team-based fighting.

For now, we can only imagine dream matchups like Ankalaev & Aspinall vs. Pereira & Jones. But if the UFC ever shakes things up with a revolutionary fight format, this is one matchup that fans would pay big money to see!

What do you think? Would a 2 vs. 2 format work in MMA? Drop your thoughts in the comments!