With Alex Pereira currently out of action and Jiri Prochazka reportedly occupied with university exams, Magomed Ankalaev appears increasingly frustrated by the lack of competition in the light heavyweight division. Taking to X earlier this week, the Russian contender voiced his irritation, posting: “Guys is there anyone in the Light Heavyweight division who’s willing to fight me?.” The post sent ripples through the MMA world, especially since Ankalaev is eager to secure a spot on the UFC 317 card during International Fight Week.

The Russian powerhouse previously claimed that Alex Pereira turned down a proposed fight — a major disappointment for fans who were expecting a marquee showdown between the two. With ‘Poatan’ seemingly off the table, many have wondered why not revisit a clash with the former light heavyweight champion — once considered the division’s “boogeyman.” But that aura was shattered earlier this year at UFC 313, when Magomed Ankalaev decisively defeated the Brazilian in front of 18,869 fans.

Relying on sharp wrestling, effective takedown attempts, and composed striking, Magomed Ankalaev outperformed Alex Pereira over five rounds. When the judges announced their scorecards, it was a clear victory for the Russian powerhouse. Although Pereira’s camp called for an immediate rematch, nothing has come of it so far. Now growing restless and determined to stay active, Ankalaev has turned his attention to a new name: ranked #6 contender Jailton Almeida. Almeida is primarily a heavyweight fighter. His willingness to drop to light heavyweight to challenge Ankalaev is notable. Surprisingly, Almeida responded to the challenge on the same X thread, writing:

“Hey champ, I accept the challenge, I’m willing to go down again and fight against you for the title! Alex always fought with short notice, he is too big for do that again, he don’t need it. Let’s go! Do you accept? I promise I’m not gonna take you down, only strike 😉”

Jailton Almeida, the 33-year-old Brazilian powerhouse, is quickly becoming a serious threat in the division. With a 9-1 record in his last 10 UFC appearances, the Bahia native is riding a two-fight win streak, most recently securing a statement knockout win over Russian knockout artist Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 311. Now, with momentum firmly behind him, Almeida has his eyes locked on Magomed Ankalaev. He’s not just looking to climb the ranks—he’s aiming to defend the pride of Brazil by settling the score on behalf of his countryman, Alex Pereira.

However, despite Almeida’s callout, one thing remains clear: in Ankalaev’s mind, there’s still only one fight that matters—and that’s the rematch with Alex Pereira.

Magomed Ankalaev reveals new potential timeline for rematch against Alex Pereira

Earlier this year, just weeks after toppling Alex Pereira, Magomed Ankalaev didn’t hesitate to declare who he believes deserves the next title shot. Highlighting the Brazilian’s elite status in the sport, the Russian knockout artist said, “Alex is next. He deserves it more than anyone. Alex is on a different level than all these guys.” But Pereira knows exactly what kind of storm he’d be walking into. Much like his fellow Dagestani fighters—such as Islam Makhachev—Ankalaev is a dangerous mix of crisp striking and solid wrestling. He’s not just a brawler; he’s a tactician with power and patience.

According to Magomed Ankalaev, the UFC had initially lined up a potential clash with Alex Pereira at UFC 317. However, the Brazilian reportedly declined. For the Russian powerhouse, who thrives on testing himself against the best, it was disappointing—but not derailing. After all, few challenges excite him more than a rematch with the man many still see as the most feared striker in the division. That said, considering ‘Poatan’s packed 2023 schedule, the champ may simply be taking a well-earned breather.

Ankalaev didn’t hold back when he took to social media to clarify the situation: “I was offered to fight Alex during International Fight Week. If the man doesn’t want it, let’s move on. I’m ready for anyone.” With UFC President Dana White recently adjusting a number of cards, October’s Abu Dhabi event is now in play—a venue Magomed Ankalaev would love to headline. Fighting in front of a crowd that understands the Dagestani spirit? That’s a dream setup for the former Combat Sambo world champ. And just to make sure the message landed, the Russian doubled down this week with a direct post on X: “I hope CHAMA will show up in Abu Dhabi. Don’t be scared, homie.”

But with Alex Pereira currently off the radar, the spotlight now turns to a pressing question: Who should Magomed Ankalaev defend his title against next? Is Jailton Almeida the rightful challenger? Or is there another contender out there ready to shake up the division? Let us know who you think deserves the shot.