What’s more crazy than having a standup fight against Alex Pereira in a MMA fight? None, but that’s precisely what Magomed Anakalaev continues to promise as he will likely take on the Brazilian later this year. Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka, two former champions, had already played that game and suffered devastating knockout losses. Nonetheless, the Russian looks determined to prove doubters wrong.
Speaking to Aslanbek Badaev in a recent Russian interview on YouTube, the 32-year-old was nonchalant when boasting about his striking advantage over Pereira. “Many experts understand that I can easily beat Pereira… I think with his speed he won’t touch me at all. The most he can do is hit me with a low kick,” Ankalaev said, adding, “I want to beat him up. I just want to attack him, just show him that I’m better than him.”
Many consider Ankalaev as the worst possible matchup for the light heavyweight champion, mainly due to his perceived wrestling pedigree. However, the second-ranked Russian has the same number of KO/TKO victories as the Brazilia in the UFC.
Another similarity between the pair is their tough fight against Jan Blachowicz, a former champion. The Brazilian eked past with a split decision over the Polish fighter while the Russian’s fight, which was for the title, ended in a split draw.
Magomed Ankalaev Dismisses Jan Blachowicz’s Title Shot Claim
After Alex Pereira knocked out Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303, defending the title for the second time in four months, Jan Blachowicz put forth his claim for a title shot. “I’ve never lost a rematch. And I won’t 👊🏻👊🏻,” the 41-year-old tweeted.
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However, Magomed Ankalaev doesn’t see Blachowicz as a serious threat. “I think if they gave us a second time, I think he wouldn’t have survived even two rounds,” Ankalaev said to Badaev, citing that a shoulder injury was why he couldn’t finish Blachowicz at UFC 282.
Ankalaev has opened as a betting underdog over Pereira. Oddsmakers have made it like that, hoping the Russian fighter would employ grappling. However, he does not have any intention of doing it. In essence, bettors should stay away from the fight.
Also Read Anthony Joshua’s Advice for Alex Pereira Sparks Heated Debate With Magomed Ankalaev
