UFC light heavyweight contender Magomed Ankalaev has voiced strong criticism against divisional champion Alex Pereira, particularly regarding Pereira’s recent callout of UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis.
As of now, Alex Pereira holds the title as the UFC light heavyweight champion, a position he’s fiercely defended. His reign has been nothing short of impressive this year, with knockout victories over Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka solidifying his spot at the top of the division. His next challenge will come later this year when he faces off against Khalil Rountree Jr. in what promises to be another thrilling title defense.
Despite Pereira’s success, there’s been a growing sense of frustration from Magomed Ankalaev, a fighter who has long been eyeing a shot at the light heavyweight crown. Ankalaev is set to face Aleksandar Rakić at UFC 308, a bout that many believe should have been for the title against Pereira. However, instead of getting the title shot he’s been working toward, Ankalaev has watched as Pereira’s attention shifts elsewhere.
Following UFC 305, Pereira made a surprising announcement: he’s considering a move back down to middleweight to challenge Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title. This declaration didn’t sit well with Ankalaev, who felt overlooked in the process. Ankalaev took to social media to express his displeasure, directly calling out Pereira.
Magomed Ankalaev Calls Out “Chicken” Alex Pereira for Targeting UFC Champion Dricus du Plesiss
“@AlexPereiraUFC biggest chicken in the Ufc he call out guys middleweight he 40 pound more than them I am the only guy he doesn’t even mention my name I promise I’m gonna handle my business in October and I’m gonna knock you out under 2 round”
Ankalaev’s frustration is understandable. He’s been steadily climbing the ranks in the light heavyweight division, and many fans and analysts alike have been calling for him to get a title shot. However, with Pereira’s focus seemingly elsewhere, Ankalaev is left to prove himself once again in a division where he feels he has already earned his place at the top.
The idea of a Pereira vs. du Plessis fight at middleweight is certainly intriguing. Pereira has proven his versatility by moving between weight classes with success, and a showdown with du Plessis would undoubtedly be a must-see event. But Ankalaev’s point stands: why is Pereira looking to move down in weight when there are still formidable challenges in his current division, namely Ankalaev himself?
Ankalaev’s upcoming fight against Aleksandar Rakić is crucial for his career. A win would not only keep his title hopes alive but also send a clear message that he’s ready and deserving of a shot at the light heavyweight belt. Rakić is no easy opponent, but Ankalaev’s confidence is palpable. He’s determined to take care of business and finally force Pereira’s hand.
Ankalaev’s Upcoming Fight
The tension between Ankalaev and Pereira adds another layer of intrigue to the light heavyweight division. Should Ankalaev emerge victorious in his bout, the pressure will undoubtedly mount on Pereira to defend his title against him. For now, though, fans are left wondering what the future holds. Will Pereira stick to his word and move back to middleweight? Or will Ankalaev’s relentless pursuit of the title finally pay off, leading to a showdown that could define both fighters’ careers?
In any case, the UFC landscape is as dynamic as ever, with champions and contenders constantly jockeying for position. While Pereira’s decision to challenge du Plessis at middleweight is certainly bold, it leaves many questions unanswered about the future of the light heavyweight division. Ankalaev, for one, isn’t backing down. His eyes are firmly set on the prize, and he’s ready to prove that he belongs among the UFC’s elite.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
