After capturing UFC gold and becoming the first Russian light heavyweight champion in company history, Magomed Ankalaev is preparing to defend his title.
The 32-year-old was long considered a threat to Alex Pereira’s title reign as he bulldozed through several contenders on his way to champion status. The pair met back at UFC 313 on March 8, and despite it being a close affair, it was Ankalaev who earned the unanimous decision victory.
Now, one month following their first fight, it looks like Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira are gearing up for their rematch.
Ankalaev has released a series of social media posts teasing an August clash against his Brazilian counterpart. The UFC is heading to Chicago, Illinois, later in the year—their first visit since 2019.
“Who likes deep dish pizza?” Ankalaev said on X as he teased the Pereira rematch.
Who likes deep dish pizza?😉
— Muhammad big ANK Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) April 9, 2025
Ankalaev later fired shots at Pereira and his supporters for breaking their hearts by beating the fan-favorite.
“One month ago, I broke a lot of hearts. In August, ‘BIG ANK’ [is] here to dunk Chicago Bulls style.”
“BIG ANK coming to dunk.”
One month ago, I broke a lot of hearts in August BIG ANK here to dunk Chicago Bulls style 🐂🐂
— Muhammad big ANK Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) April 9, 2025
While the comments likely won’t go down well with Alex Pereira, he wasn’t too disheartened after losing the belt to Magomed Ankalaev last month.
Related: Alex Pereira confirms he fought Magomed Ankalaev while injured
‘Poatan’ released a statement to fans after his defeat.
“[I’m] gonna rest a bit,” Pereira said after suffering defeat at UFC 313. “I’ll be back like I’ve always done. This has already happened sometimes, but I’m good…”
“Gonna make some adjustments for the rematch, and I’ll be back much better. You can count on it… Never give up on your dreams. Chama.”
Though no official date has been confirmed for Magomed Ankalaev’s title rematch against Alex Pereira, reports suggest the bout will take place in August at either UFC 318 or UFC 319.
