After defeating Aleksandar Rakic in a fight held in October in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Magomed Ankalaev has gained massive confidence. Intending to become UFC light heavyweight champion, the Russian is constantly looking for a duel against Alex Pereira, but he still does not have confirmation from the UFC or the light heavyweight kingpin. This recently led him to accuse Alex Pereira of holding up the fight.

Now, Ankalaev seems to have found a new man with whom to get into a war of words. But who is it? Well, it’s none other than Jiri Prochazka. Recently on X, ‘Denisa’ took some jibes at Jamahal Hill and Magomed Ankalaev.

‘The Czech Samurai’ was replying to accusations made by UFC 311 opponent Jamahal Hill, who claimed that Prochazka has a low fight IQ. This led the fighter to call out Hill, claiming he impressed no one in his last three fights. However, Ankalaev too was caught in the crossfire as ‘Denisa’ called him out for the same.

He said, “Jamahal, don’t speak about my performances, fight IQ, and all these things because in your last fight you didn’t show nothing, really. Ankalaev, in your last three fights you showed totally nothing.” Clearly offended by the video, the Russian fighter fired back at his opponent through a scathing tweet highlighting Prochazka’s recent losses. He wrote, “Hey, why you talk about me, 2 of your last 3 fights you went to sleep, Alex made you go to sleep but I will make Alex go to sleep and I believe Jamahal Hill will make you sleep also, your new name is sleepy Jiri. Focus on your fight.”

Well, it seems like Magomed Ankalaev is drawing a lot of heat from prospective opponents in the UFC. It is worth noting that apart from Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira, the Russian fighter also got into troubled waters with Jon Jones by calling out ‘Bones’ for ducking a fight against Tom Aspinall. This led to tensions between the two but with so many people going against him, who will he fight next? Well, the answer to the question has been provided by Ankalaev himself.

Magomed Ankalaev decides between facing Alex Pereira or Jon Jones

Magomed Ankalaev, one of the top contenders in the UFC’s light heavyweight division, was recently interviewed about who he would prefer to face between Alex Pereira and Jon Jones. In a relaxed tone but with a direct response, Ankalaev compared both fighters to a culinary metaphor, noting that although the “desserts” are delicious, Pereira is the next target.

“The desserts are both very tasty [smiles]. But Pereira is in my division, so I would choose him,” Ankalaev said during an interview, as reported by Ushatayka. This response demonstrates Ankalaev’s confidence and his focus on his own championship path.

Alex Pereira, known for his impressive hitting ability and recent rise to the division, would be an intriguing opponent for Ankalaev, who has proven his prowess in the Octagon. Ankalaev’s preference for Pereira shows how the Russian is focused on what is closest to his reach, looking to advance his career and possibly face the Brazilian. What do you think? Who will win the fight between the two? Let us know in the comments.