Fighters often strategize about which weight division gives them the best shot at glory. But when champions start eyeing other weight classes, it can ruffle some feathers. That’s exactly what’s happening with Alex Pereira. The Brazilian knockout artist has hinted at a possible return to middleweight, leaving Magomed Ankalaev frustrated.
Ankalaev is not mincing words when it comes to UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. The Russian fighter recently took to social media to express his frustration with Pereira’s potential move back to the middleweight division.
“@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,” wrote Ankalaev.
But let’s not forget, Pereira is no stranger to the middleweight division. He was once the king of the 185-pound weight class. So, it’s not like he’s trying to sneak into a party he wasn’t invited to. Interestingly, despite all the middleweight talk, Pereira is actually scheduled to defend his light heavyweight title against Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307.
Meanwhile, Ankalaev is set to face Aleksandar Rakic in October. He’s promising to “handle his business” and then set his sights on Pereira. Whether Pereira stays at light heavyweight or drops down, one thing’s for sure – Ankalaev will be watching closely.
Magomed Ankalaev Not Phased By Being Passed Over For Title Shot
Title shots are like golden tickets. Everyone wants one, but not everyone gets one. This time, it’s Ankalaev who’s found himself on the outside looking in. The light heavyweight division has been buzzing with excitement lately. Many fans and analysts thought Ankalaev was next in line for a shot at Pereira. But the UFC had other plans.
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In a surprising turn of events, #8 Khalil Rountree Jr. has been granted the next title shot against Pereira. This decision has left many scratching their heads, including Ankalaev himself. But he is not moping around complaining.
“I Received a lot of messages today regarding the Light Heavyweight title fight, my job is to smash people’s face who they put in front of me, I will destroy Rakic in Abu Dhabi and I will not be denied, I don’t need nobody to feel bad for me @danawhite @Mickmaynard2,” wrote Ankalaev.
This was a very off choice for the UFC as Rountree recently failed a drug test, and his fight against Jamahal Hill was canceled. But now, he is getting a title shot. Meanwhile, the #2 ranked Ankalaev was put up against #5 Aleksandr Rakic, who is coming off a loss against Jiri Prochazka. This is an unpredictable sport, and Ankalaev understands it. Maybe his next fight will be see him face ‘Poatan.’
