It’s Official! Alex Pereira Vs. Magomed Ankalaev Rematch Set For August!

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A Rematch That the MMA World Has Been Waiting For

The UFC has just dropped massive news—a highly anticipated rematch between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev is officially set for August. After months of speculation, fans will finally get to witness these two light heavyweight warriors clash once again inside the Octagon.

image_67e0e25b762a5 It’s Official! Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Rematch Set for August!

Their first meeting was nothing short of explosive, leaving many questions unanswered. Did Pereira deserve the win? Was Ankalaev robbed? The MMA community has been divided, and now, both fighters have a chance to settle the score once and for all.

This must-watch fight could shape the future of the UFC light heavyweight division. Will Pereira cement his legacy as a dominant champion, or will Ankalaev prove he’s the rightful king of the division?

Let’s break down everything you need to know about this blockbuster rematch—the history, the controversy, the stakes, and what to expect when these two MMA titans collide in August.

How We Got Here: The Controversial First Fight

Pereira vs. Ankalaev 1: A War That Left Questions

The first encounter between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev was one of the most talked-about fights in recent memory. Fans expected fireworks, and that’s exactly what they got.

Date: December 2023
Event: UFC 295
Result: Alex Pereira wins via controversial split decision
Significance: UFC Light Heavyweight Championship was on the line

The fight was a brutal back-and-forth battle, showcasing both men’s strengths. Pereira’s elite striking and devastating power were on full display, while Ankalaev’s wrestling and ground control made the contest an intense chess match.

However, when the judges’ decision was announced in Pereira’s favor, controversy erupted. Many fighters, analysts, and fans believed Ankalaev had done enough to win. His wrestling dominance in certain rounds led to heated debates about scoring criteria and whether control time should outweigh damage.

Ankalaev’s Reaction: “I Was Robbed”

Magomed Ankalaev didn’t mince words after the fight. The Russian powerhouse was visibly frustrated and felt that he had done enough to secure the victory.

Ankalaev post-fight interview:
“I dominated him on the ground. Everyone saw it. This was my fight. I was robbed.”

The UFC community was split. Some believed Pereira’s striking and aggression won him the fight, while others argued that Ankalaev’s takedowns and control should have given him the nod.

Now, with a rematch officially booked, Ankalaev has the opportunity to erase any doubt and reclaim what he believes is his.

What’s at Stake in the Rematch?

The August rematch is more than just a fight—it’s a battle for legacy, redemption, and division dominance. Here’s what’s on the line:

1. Pereira’s Title Defense & Legacy

Since moving up to 205 pounds, Alex Pereira has proven that he’s a force to be reckoned with. The former UFC middleweight champion quickly adjusted to the heavier weight class and captured the light heavyweight belt in impressive fashion.

With another victory over Ankalaev, Pereira would:
Silence doubters who questioned his grappling defense
Solidify his status as a dominant two-division UFC champion
Set up massive super fights with other top contenders like Jiri Prochazka or Jamahal Hill

A win here could push Pereira closer to legendary status, but losing the belt after just one defense would be a major setback.

2. Ankalaev’s Redemption

For Magomed Ankalaev, this fight is all about redemption. He came so close to capturing UFC gold, only to walk away empty-handed.

A victory in August would:
Prove he’s the true best light heavyweight
Erase the sting of his controversial loss
Put him in position for a dominant title reign

Ankalaev is hungry, and that hunger could be dangerous for Pereira.

3. The Future of the UFC Light Heavyweight Division

The light heavyweight division has been in chaos since Jon Jones left for heavyweight. The title has been passed around multiple times, with no one holding it for long.

If Pereira defends successfully, he could become the division’s first dominant champion in years. However, if Ankalaev wins, it sets up potential matchups with other contenders, keeping the division wide open.

Breaking Down the Fight: Pereira vs. Ankalaev 2

This rematch is going to be a clash of styles, and the game plan for each fighter will be crucial.

Alex Pereira’s Keys to Victory

Utilize His World-Class Striking – Pereira’s kickboxing is elite. He needs to keep the fight standing and control the distance.

Improve His Takedown Defense – Ankalaev will undoubtedly look to wrestle. Pereira must stay on his feet and avoid prolonged ground battles.

Go for the Knockout – Pereira’s best chance to win is by stopping Ankalaev early. He has one-punch KO power, and a well-placed shot could end the fight in an instant.

Magomed Ankalaev’s Keys to Victory

Wrestle, Wrestle, Wrestle – Ankalaev must use his superior grappling and take Pereira down early and often.

Control Time on the Ground – He doesn’t just need takedowns; he needs to keep Pereira down and rack up control time.

Avoid a Stand-Up War – Striking with Pereira for too long is a recipe for disaster. Ankalaev must neutralize Pereira’s power by keeping the fight dirty and close.

Predictions: Who Has the Edge?

This fight is as close as it gets, with both men having clear paths to victory.

If Pereira keeps it standing → He likely wins by KO.
If Ankalaev gets consistent takedowns → He likely wins by decision.

The oddsmakers will probably have this fight very close, but many will favor Ankalaev due to his wrestling. However, Pereira’s one-shot power is an X-factor that can change everything in seconds.

MMA Experts’ Predictions

Daniel Cormier: “If Ankalaev can impose his wrestling, he wins. If not, Pereira is too dangerous on the feet.”

Chael Sonnen: “I think Pereira gets it done. He’s improving every fight, and he’ll adjust from the first meeting.”

Jon Anik: “This is a true 50-50 fight. It all depends on whose game plan works better on the night.”

A Fight You Can’t Miss

The UFC light heavyweight division has been waiting for a true defining rivalry, and we may have found it with Pereira vs. Ankalaev.

The first fight ended in controversy, but now, there are no excuses. This rematch will give us a clear answer on who the true champion is.