Magomed Ankalaev Warns Alex Pereira: ‘This Time, There Will Be No 5 Rounds!’

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Magomed Ankalaev has officially announced a high-stakes rematch against former titleholder Alex Pereira. The reigning champion broke the news on March 20, 2025, via his social media platforms, igniting a wave of anticipation among MMA fans worldwide.

“I have a date, and I accepted it already. I hope my opponent will accept too. This time there will be no 5 rounds; I don’t get paid by the hour,” Ankalaev boldly declared, hinting at a brutal and decisive showdown.

A War That Demands a Sequel

This rematch follows their intense first encounter at UFC 313 on March 9, 2025, where Ankalaev dismantled Pereira over five grueling rounds, securing a dominant unanimous decision victory. The fight showcased Ankalaev’s exceptional wrestling, striking, and cage control—leaving Pereira searching for answers.

Many fans, however, believe Pereira deserves a second chance. The Brazilian knockout artist, known for his one-punch devastation, is determined to rewrite his story and reclaim his belt.

Ankalaev’s Mindset: A Quick Finish, No More 5 Rounds
Ankalaev’s cryptic comment about not getting paid by the hour suggests he has no interest in another drawn-out contest. This time, he wants a finish—a stark warning to Pereira that he won’t allow the fight to go the distance.

Could this mean a more aggressive, striking-heavy game plan from the Russian? Or does he intend to impose a suffocating wrestling assault to exhaust Pereira even faster?

Pereira’s Response: Will ‘Poatan’ Unleash His Full Power?

While Ankalaev dominated the first fight, Pereira is a warrior who thrives under pressure. The former kickboxing world champion has already begun teasing a more refined game plan, aiming to neutralize Ankalaev’s wrestling and impose his devastating striking.

MMA analyst Igor Petrenko predicts, “Pereira will come into this fight smarter and hungrier. He won’t allow himself to be bullied in the clinch. Expect fireworks.”

What’s at stake? A Legacy-Defining Fight

This isn’t just about a title—this fight could define the future of the UFC light heavyweight division.

For Ankalaev: A victory would cement him as the undisputed king of 205 lbs, proving his win at UFC 313 was no fluke.
For Pereira: A redemption arc awaits. If he knocks out Ankalaev, he reclaims his throne and re-establishes himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in MMA history.
When Will It Happen? UFC Fans Eager for a Date
While the official fight date remains undisclosed, reports suggest the rematch will take place in the second half of 2025, potentially at UFC 320 or UFC 321. The UFC is likely aiming for a major PPV event to maximize the hype surrounding this epic rematch.

Final Thoughts: A Collision Course Like No Other

With both fighters eager to make a statement, this rematch could be even more explosive than their first encounter. Will Ankalaev prove he’s levels above the division, or will Pereira shock the world with a knockout for the ages?

One thing is certain: The UFC light heavyweight division has never been more exciting.

Strategic Adjustments: How Will Ankalaev and Pereira Approach the Rematch?
With the rematch officially in the works, the biggest question heading into this fight is: How will both fighters adjust?

In their first meeting, Ankalaev’s dominance was clear—his wrestling, striking accuracy, and cage control left Pereira struggling to impose his own game plan. But a rematch means adjustments, and if Pereira wants to reclaim the belt, he must come with a completely different approach.

Ankalaev’s Game Plan: More Pressure, Faster Finish

Ankalaev’s post about not getting paid by the hour suggests that this time, he doesn’t want a five-round war—he wants a definitive finish.

Expect more aggressive striking early on. While Ankalaev relied on measured output in their first fight, he could apply more pressure, looking to hurt Pereira early.
His wrestling will still be a key factor, but instead of playing it safe, he may hunt for a submission or a ground-and-pound TKO.
He has studied Pereira’s habits—this time, expect him to cut off Pereira’s angles faster, not allowing him to set up those lethal counter-strikes.
If Ankalaev finishes Pereira, it will eliminate all doubt that he is the true king of the division.

Pereira’s Adjustments: Can He Stop the Takedown?

For Pereira, the key to winning is simple on paper but difficult in execution: keep the fight standing.

Defensive wrestling will be crucial—he must prevent Ankalaev from securing easy takedowns.
Better footwork and movement—last time, he allowed Ankalaev to dictate range. If he cuts angles more effectively, he could force Ankalaev into uncomfortable striking exchanges.
Early aggression—Pereira is at his best when he intimidates his opponents. Instead of waiting, he could aim to catch Ankalaev off guard in the opening rounds.
If Pereira finds the perfect moment to land a knockout strike, he could reclaim his belt in spectacular fashion.

The Stakes: Why This Fight Is More Than Just a Rematch

The UFC light heavyweight division has always been filled with legends—Jon Jones, Daniel Cormier, Chuck Liddell, Rampage Jackson—and now, Ankalaev and Pereira are writing their own legacies.

For Ankalaev: This is his moment to prove he isn’t just a champion by circumstance but a dominant force who could rule for years.
For Pereira: A second loss to Ankalaev could end his light heavyweight run and force him to rethink his career trajectory.