Once viewed as the UFC’s Michael Myers-like “boogeyman,” Alex Pereira’s aura of invincibility took a major hit earlier this year. The former light heavyweight champion faced his most challenging stylistic opponent—the relentless Russian force, Magomed Ankalaev. What followed was a grueling five-round battle that tested ‘Poatan’ like never before. With a strategic mix of takedown attempts and striking control, Ankalaev neutralized the Brazilian offense, prompting critics to say Pereira “ran for 20 minutes” during the fight.

When it was all said and done, the judges rendered a unanimous decision in favor of Magomed Ankalaev. Refusing to dwell on the loss, Alex Pereira immediately called for a rematch, which Ankalaev and his team accepted without hesitation. They remain confident that history will repeat itself, and the Russian will once again assert his dominance inside the Octagon. What makes Ankalaev’s triumph even more significant is its place in UFC history.

While Dagestani greats like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev captured vacant titles, Magomed Ankalaev became the first from the region to defeat a reigning champion and claim the belt outright. While Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev both won vacant titles, it’s important to note that Ankalaev’s victory over Pereira, a reigning champion, distinguishes his achievement.

As anticipation builds for the rematch, Ankalaev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, who also represents Khabib, made his stance crystal clear during a recent interview on Submission Radio. When asked by the host, “How do you feel this rematch is going? Because, man, he was really able to dominate Alex in so many areas,” Abdelaziz didn’t pull any punches with his response.

Ali Abdelaziz said, “It’s going to be a very bad—it’s going to be a very bad night for Alex [Pereira]… Everybody—everybody is scared of Alex. Ankalaev, he understands he can give and he can take. And when you, as a fighter, know that… Ankalaev can hit hard, and he has a way better chin than Alex. And… I think Alex is the toughest fight. I don’t think it’s Jiri or any of those other guys. They’re not on the level of Ankalaev and Alex, honestly.”

And judging by the numbers, it’s hard to argue. Magomed Ankalaev has firmly established himself as the new “boogeyman” of the light heavyweight division. The Dagestani contender hasn’t tasted defeat since 2018 and is currently riding an impressive 12-fight win streak. As buzz around a potential rematch builds, reports indicate that UFC 317 was initially offered to both fighters.

However, word is that Alex Pereira turned the offer down—an apparent decision that didn’t sit well with Magomed Ankalaev. In response, the Russian powerhouse has now laid out a new timeline for the Brazilian to step back into the Octagon and settle the score.

Magomed Ankalaev offered a new timeline for Alex Pereira — what is it exactly?

Dana White recently unveiled the UFC’s upcoming pay-per-view schedule, much to the excitement of fans eager for high-profile matchups. Leading the charge is UFC 317, set to take place during International Fight Week, with Ilia Topuria facing Charles Oliveira as the main event. However, one anticipated bout that didn’t make the card was Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev.

Ankalaev made it clear this wasn’t due to a lack of interest on his part. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he declared, “I was offered to fight Alex (Pereira) [during] International Fight Week. If the man doesn’t want it, let’s move on. I’m ready for everyone. I dare you.” Many fans find it hard to believe Alex Pereira would avoid the fight, especially given his active schedule last year. The Brazilian has since denied Ankalaev’s claims, further fueling the rivalry between these two light heavyweight contenders.

With no Pereira vs. Ankalaev fight at UFC 317 and no new date on the horizon, Ankalaev has now suggested a new venue and timeframe. Abu Dhabi, a favored UFC destination in October, is where he hopes the showdown will happen. Recently, he called out Alex Pereira once more: “I hope CHAMA will show up in Abu Dhabi. Don’t be scared, homie.” Now, the decision lies with Dana White and the UFC brass. What’s your take on this highly anticipated rematch? Can Alex Pereira reclaim his title, or will Ankalaev solidify his reign? Share your thoughts below!