Written by Alex Pereira | Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Alex Pereira seems to be moving past a Magomed Ankalaev matchup and Ankalaev isn’t happy about it.
Ankalaev has established himself as the de facto No. 1 contender at 205 pounds on the strength of a 13-fight unbeaten streak dating back to 2018. However, he’s yet to receive a second title shot—a battle for a vacant belt between Ankalaev and Jan Blachowicz at UFC 282 ended in a split draw—and it doesn’t sound like Pereira is planning to grant it anytime soon.
“Poatan” wrote on social media, “It won’t be Ankalaev!” along with a crying emoji. Five hours later, Ankalaev issued his response, calling Pereira a “chicken.”
Pereira is coming off of one of the most exciting years in UFC history having defended his light heavyweight title three times in headlining spots against Khalil Rountree, Jiri Prochazka, and Jamahal Hill. He defeated all three challengers by knockout, with his KO of Hill capping off the promotion’s historic UFC 300 event in April.
As for why Pereira is being dismissive of Ankalaev, it could be because of the options ahead of him. UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has frequently mentioned Pereira as a fight he’d like to see happen to boost his already impressive legacy, while Pereira could also have a grudge match with Hill waiting for him if Hill gets past Prochazka at UFC 311 on Jan. 18.
Ankalaev competed twice in 2024, keeping his undefeated run going with wins over Aleksandar Rakic and Johnny Walker. His UFC record stands at 11-1-1 (1 NC).