Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion, has become a prominent figure in mixed martial arts, captivating fans worldwide. Following a remarkable 2024, the MMA community is buzzing with anticipation, eager to know: When Will Alex Pereira Fight Again? His next bout is undoubtedly one of the most highly anticipated events in the sport.
Rumors had circulated about a potential heavyweight clash for Pereira against Alexander Volkov. This speculation gained traction, particularly after Volkov’s controversial fight at UFC 310. However, veteran combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani has stepped in to clarify the situation, citing reliable sources that contradict these heavyweight rumors.
Ankalaev, Not Volkov, Likely Next for Pereira
According to Helwani’s sources, a move to the heavyweight division is not currently on Alex Pereira’s agenda. Instead, the prevailing plan points towards a light heavyweight title defense against Magomed Ankalaev. Ankalaev is currently the No. 1 contender in the UFC light heavyweight rankings, making him the most logical and deserving challenger for Pereira’s championship.
While some speculated Volkov might get a heavyweight title shot due to feeling “robbed” in his last fight, it appears the UFC is prioritizing the established light heavyweight hierarchy. Helwani’s reputation for accuracy in MMA reporting lends significant weight to this update, shifting focus from a potential heavyweight spectacle to a highly anticipated light heavyweight title showdown. The question now isn’t if Pereira will face Ankalaev, but when and how this matchup will materialize.
UFC 313 in March? Ramadan Complicates Ankalaev’s Training
Pereira himself has indicated his intention to return to the Octagon as early as March. This timeline immediately brings UFC 313, scheduled for March 8 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, into the spotlight as a potential date. However, this timeframe introduces a significant complication for Magomed Ankalaev.
Ankalaev is a Muslim, and should the fight be set for March 8, his training camp would coincide with Ramadan. Ramadan involves daily fasting from dawn till sunset, which could significantly impact Ankalaev’s physical preparation for a championship fight. This presents a challenge, potentially compromising his ability to perform at his peak against Pereira.
Despite the Ramadan timing issue, it’s possible that Ankalaev is under pressure from Pereira and/or the UFC to accept a March fight date. Refusing the March date could mean Pereira might choose another opponent, delaying Ankalaev’s long-awaited title opportunity further into the year.
Ankalaev last fought in October, securing a unanimous decision victory over Aleksandr Rakic. He is undeniably the most deserving contender for Pereira’s light heavyweight title. Whether he can overcome the challenges of training through Ramadan to be fully prepared for a March fight remains to be seen.
MMA fans should anticipate more definitive news regarding Pereira’s next fight in the coming weeks. Potential updates could even emerge as early as next Saturday, around the time of UFC 311.
What’s on the UFC Horizon?
While the MMA world awaits news on Pereira’s next fight, the UFC continues its busy schedule with UFC Vegas 101. Despite some fighters missing weight, the event is set to proceed as planned. Mackenzie Dern and Amanda Ribas headline the card in a rematch, offering fans exciting action in the strawweight division.
Here is a look at the UFC Vegas 101 fight card:
- Mackenzie Dern (116) vs. Amanda Ribas (116)
- Santiago Ponzinibbio (171) vs. Carlston Harris (170)
- Abdul Razak Alhassan (185.5) vs. Cesar Almeida (185.5)
- Chris Curtis (185.5) vs. Roman Kopylov (185.5)
- Christian Rodriguez (145) vs. Austin Bashi (145.5)
- Uros Medic (171) vs. Punahele Soriano (171)
- Jose Johnson (128.5)* vs. Felipe Bunes (126)
- Marco Tulio (185.5) vs. Ihor Potieria (188)*
- Thiago Moises (155.5) vs. Trey Ogden (155.5)
- Preston Parsons (171) vs. Jacobe Smith (170.5)
- Ernesta Kareckaite (126) vs. Nicolle Caliari (125.5)
- Magomed Gadzhiyasulov (205) vs. Bruno Lopes (205.5)
- Fatima Kline (116) vs. Viktoriia Dudakova (116)
- Nurullo Aliev (155.5) vs. Joe Solecki (155)
*Missed weight
