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Alex Pereira Hungry for Revenge: ‘Poatan’ Sets Sights on Reclaiming UFC Light Heavyweight Gold from Ankalaev
The beast isn’t sleeping – he’s just reloading. Former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has broken his silence after his shocking knockout loss to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 300, and “Poatan” is already plotting his comeback.
While most fighters might take an extended break after being on the wrong end of a highlight reel KO, Pereira isn’t most fighters. The Brazilian striking phenom is reportedly ready to resume training and has his sights locked on one goal: reclaiming the 205-pound title he lost to Ankalaev.
The Fall of a Champion
Let’s be real – nobody saw this coming. Pereira had been on an absolute tear since moving up to light heavyweight, collecting scalps and knockouts with terrifying efficiency. The man who already conquered two divisions (remember his middleweight reign?) seemed unstoppable until he met Ankalaev’s powerful right hand at UFC 300.
That night in Las Vegas, we witnessed something rare: Pereira being rendered unconscious by strikes. For a guy who made his name putting others to sleep, it was a humbling moment.
Insert image of Ankalaev’s knockout of Pereira at UFC 300 here
The Comeback Blueprint
According to sources close to Pereira’s camp, the former champion isn’t dwelling on the loss. Instead, he’s already mapping out his return to the top of the division. Here’s what we know about his comeback plan:
- Pereira is expected to resume full training within weeks
- His team believes he’s just one big win away from another title shot
- The Brazilian wants the rematch with Ankalaev before the end of 2024
“Alex is a different breed,” said one training partner who requested anonymity. “Most guys would be shattered after losing their belt like that. He was watching film of the fight the next day, already identifying what went wrong.”
Why Ankalaev vs. Pereira II Makes Sense
While the UFC hasn’t officially commented on Pereira’s next fight, a rematch with Ankalaev makes perfect sense for several reasons:
| Factor | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Star Power | Pereira remains one of UFC’s biggest draws despite the loss |
| Competitive Merit | Pereira’s dominance before the loss warrants an immediate rematch |
| Fan Interest | The first fight ended dramatically, leaving fans wanting more |
| Commercial Appeal | Revenge storylines sell pay-per-views better than almost anything |
Ankalaev’s Perspective
While Pereira is laser-focused on reclaiming his throne, new champion Magomed Ankalaev isn’t exactly rushing to give him a rematch. The Dagestani fighter has been vocal about wanting to defend his newly won title against fresh contenders.
“I respect Pereira, but I finished him decisively,” Ankalaev stated in a recent interview. “There are other hungry fighters in the division who deserve their shot.”
But let’s be honest – money talks in this business, and a rematch with Pereira likely represents Ankalaev’s biggest payday by far. The UFC brass knows this, and they’re in the business of selling fights people want to see.
What’s Next for Both Fighters?
The light heavyweight division is suddenly brimming with intriguing matchups. If Pereira doesn’t get an immediate rematch, he could face any of these top contenders:
- Jamahal Hill (former champion looking for his own comeback)
- Jiri Prochazka (another former champion with unfinished business)
- Jan Blachowicz (a veteran with knockout power who matches up well)
Meanwhile, Ankalaev might defend against one of these fighters if the UFC decides against booking the immediate rematch with Pereira.
Can Lightning Strike Twice?
The burning question on everyone’s mind: Can Pereira solve the Ankalaev puzzle in a potential rematch?
I’ve covered combat sports for years, and here’s my take: Pereira’s greatest strength has always been his ability to make adjustments. Remember how he avenged his loss to Israel Adesanya in spectacular fashion? The man learns from defeats better than almost anyone in the sport.
Ankalaev caught him with a perfectly timed counter. In a rematch, expect Pereira to be much more cautious early while still carrying that same terrifying power that can end fights in an instant.
The Bottom Line
Alex Pereira isn’t going anywhere. The former kickboxing and two-division UFC champion has demonstrated time and again that setbacks only fuel his competitive fire. While Ankalaev deserves full credit for his victory, writing off “Poatan” would be a massive mistake.
The light heavyweight division just got a whole lot more interesting, and fans are the real winners. Whether Pereira gets his immediate rematch or has to earn it with another highlight-reel finish, one thing is certain – his journey back to the top will be must-see TV.
What do you think? Does Pereira deserve an immediate rematch, or should he win another fight first? Let me know in the comments below!
Source: UFC press releases and fighter interviews
