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Magomed Ankalaev Asks Alex Pereira to Skip Wrestling With Promise to Make Rematch a Strike Fest

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Ameetosh Dash | Last updated Sep 1, 2025 8:48 AM ET

The stage is completely set for the much-anticipated UFC light heavyweight title rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira. This thrilling fight will take place in the main event of the upcoming UFC 320 card, drawing massive worldwide attention. Ahead of the fight, the Brazilian star aims to avenge his previous painful loss, seeking redemption against the newly crowned champion.

In the first bout at UFC 313, Ankalaev used his wrestling skills limit Pereira. He shot 12 unsuccessful takedowns, but managed to control ‘Poatan’ against the cage.. By constantly holding onto him, Ankalaev forced Pereira to remain on his back foot to defend instead of attacking. This wrestling strategy prevented the Brazilian from ever unleashing his godly knockout power in the striking department.

Pereira has already begun his training camp, focusing heavily on improving his ground game and defending numerous possible takedown attempts. In his latest released training clip, the Brazilian striker was seen defending takedowns, back-to-back, showcasing progress. In response to that viral video, Ankalaev publicly mocked ‘Poatan’ and reminded him to worry about something far more devastating.

This guy bring Punch. Taxi driver to help him with Wrestling. You don’t need to worry about Wrestling, I’m gonna find this big head.
Magomed Ankalaev via X

Due to the constant takedown threat, Ankalaev also outstruck Pereira in the striking department, landing several clean combinations effectively. However, in the highly anticipated rematch, the Russian plans to attempt an entirely different approach, aiming to finish via knockout. In contrast to Pereira, in his most recent training clips, Ankalaev was seen sharpening striking skills and increasing knockout power.

Magomed Ankalaev reacts to video of Alex Pereira working on his takedown defense ahead of their rematch

"You don’t need to worry about wrestling I’m gonna find this big head again." #UFC320 pic.twitter.com/beelfHz8ij
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) August 31, 2025

On top of all this, Ankalaev has remained extremely active online, trolling and accusing Pereira of being scared. He has engaged in heated beef with other top contenders as well, including Khalil Rountree and former champion Jiri Prochazka .

The fighter has discussed potentially moving up to the heavyweight division after defending his title successfully a couple of additional times. However, to achieve that massive goal, he must first stop Pereira once again in a very risky title fight.

Alex Pereira isn’t concerned about the threat involving Magomed Ankalaev

Alex Pereira had an incredible UFC run, starting by capturing the middleweight title and shocking fans with breathtaking performances. He carried the same unstoppable momentum to become the light heavyweight champion, proving his greatness across two divisions. Within a single year, Pereira defended the light heavyweight belt three times, knocking out every opponent violently, leaving fans speechless.

He defeated some of the biggest names in the sport, including Israel Adesanya , Sean Strickland , and Jiri Prochazka, cementing his legendary status. In a recent interview, the popular fighter shared his mindset ahead of the title rematch with Magomed Ankalaev.

I’ve definitely fought tougher opponents. The situation itself on that day, the circumstances, made him a hard opponent, but I’ve definitely fought people way harder than him. I’m definitely hungry, but it was a fight that many thought that I won. Honestly in my mind, I see myself as still the champ because the way that people treat me, the way they look at me.
Alex Pereira via The Schmo

Ahead of the first fight, there were serious concerns about Pereira traveling worldwide and possibly neglecting consistent training preparation. Many experts believed Pereira’s growing popularity and fame had affected his mindset, potentially reducing his sharpness during fights.

The fighter is currently busy shooting for his Hollywood debut in an upcoming A2A movie, further limiting serious training commitment. As a result, he is not the betting favorite, though his brutal knockout power could change the dynamics dramatically within seconds.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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