Alex Pereira‘s rematch with Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320 is building up to be one of the year’s most exciting light heavyweight contests. Their first encounter at UFC 313 saw Ankalaev win the title by unanimous decision, delivering ‘Poatan’ his first loss at 205 pounds.

Seven months later, the Brazilian kickboxer returns with a mission: reclaim the title and show the improvements he has made since his setback. Fans are excited to see if Alex Pereira’s striking evolution can finally outperform Magomed Ankalaev’s tactical adaptability, and here is what the stats have to say.

Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev height and reach comparison

Alex Pereira stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and has a reach of 79 inches, giving him a little advantage against Ankalaev, who is 6 feet 3 inches tall and has a reach of 75 inches. The Brazilian’s height and reach advantage enable him to control distance, bombard opponents with long-range strikes, and keep the hitting rhythm that has defined his career. His kickboxing expertise thrives in situations where he can control the range, making the reach differential a subtle yet important factor. However, in their first match, Magomed Ankalaev proved his ability to nullify such physical edges with tactical mobility and pressure.

The Russian countered Alex Pereira’s reach advantage by closing the distance quickly, switching between punching and grappling, and controlling clinch situations. While the height and reach disparity benefits ‘Poatan’ on paper, in practice, it will be determined by whether he can keep the fight inside a comfortable hitting range or whether Ankalaev can force exchanges in areas where reach is less important.

In a rematch where every inch and strike counts, these physical attributes may influence timing, positioning, and fight pace. Alex Pereira’s goal is to maximize his reach without overextending, while Ankalaev must identify opportunities to exploit the reduced striking distance while keeping control in close-quarters combat.

The walk-around weight of the UFC 320 main eventers

At the UFC 320 weigh-ins, both fighters met the light heavyweight limit of 204.5 pounds. Alex Pereira’s walk-around weight remains around 230 lbs, while Ankalaev is at 220 lbs outside of fight camp. This suggests that both fighters enter the cage in comparable physical condition, with no major weight advantage tipping the scales.

Such parity ensures that the outcome depends on skill execution, strategy, and adaptation rather than sheer size or physical bulk. The weight factor also influences stamina, speed, and power throughout the fight. Alex Pereira’s slightly larger walk-around weight may offer him additional punching power if he maintains his energy levels.

On the other hand, the Russian’s slightly lighter body may allow for slightly faster mobility and easier transitions in grappling exchanges. Ultimately, both fighters have maintained disciplined conditioning since their first fight, making walk-around weight less of an issue and emphasizing tactical and technical performance.

Comparing the fighting style of both fighters

Alex Pereira relies largely on his world-class striking, which has been perfected through years of professional kickboxing. His timing, precision, and knockout power make him a constant threat from a distance, and staying within range will be critical to his approach in the rematch. Pereira’s stand-up game is explosive, and any gaps left by Ankalaev could prove decisive if he capitalizes immediately with powerful combinations.

Magomed Ankalaev has a distinct style that combines striking and grappling skills. Comfortable in close quarters, he can negate Pereira’s reach advantage by forcing clinches or transitions to the ground. The Russian’s agility and tactical acumen were crucial in their first fight, and he will most likely use similar techniques while anticipating Pereira’s adjustments.

The rematch will put Pereira’s ability to maintain distance under constant pressure to the test, while Ankalaev will need to strike a balance between aggression and patience. Both fighters’ adjustments from the first bout will be pivotal, transforming this into a chess match of striking, grappling, and timing, with the winner determined by execution and in-fight intellect rather than raw athleticism.

Final prediction for the main event fight

While Alex Pereira’s reach and striking power allow him to dominate stand-up exchanges, Magomed Ankalaev’s pressure, versatility, and inside game may once again give him the advantage. If ‘Poatan’ can consistently keep the fight at striking distance, he has a chance to reclaim the belt. However, given Ankalaev’s controlled approach and success in their first fight, he may maintain the upper hand over the course of five rounds.

Prediction: Magomed Ankalaev will win by decision, but Pereira’s power leaves the door open for a late stoppage. UFC 320 promises a tactical, high-stakes rematch in which skill, strategy, and in-fight adjustments will ultimately determine the winner. What do you think? Do you agree with our prediction? Let us know in the comments.