Magomed Ankalaev teases stand-up approach for potential Alex Pereira clash while targeting title shot post-UFC 307
Magomed Ankalaev reiterated his interest in a striking battle against Alex Pereira.
At UFC 307, Pereira extended his light heavyweight title reign against Khalil Rountree Jr., once again showcasing his world-class striking skills. The Brazilian fan favorite had a slow start through two rounds before breaking down Rountree Jr., with leg kicks, body punches, and a variety of strikes to the head.
Pereira's latest performance has fans questioning if anyone at 205 pounds can outstrike him. Meanwhile, one top contender has continued to advocate for a title while promising to underutilize his high-level grappling skills.
Following UFC 307, a fan took to X and posted the following message with a picture of number two-ranked Magomed Ankalaev:
"This man won't just strike, he will mix it up. Let's end the protection plan #UFC307"
Anakalev responded to the fan by saying:
"I will strike"
Magomed Ankalaev is riding a 12-fight unbeaten streak, including a draw against Jan Blachowicz for the vacant light heavyweight title. In his last outing, Ankalaev reminded everyone of his threat level by securing a second-round knockout against Johnny Walker.
Magomed Ankalaev has business to take care of before potentially facing Alex Pereira
Magomed Ankalaev had a strong argument to face Alex Pereira for the 205-pound throne before Khalil Rountree Jr. Instead, the UFC gave 'The War Horse' the opportunity and matched Ankalaev against another top contender later this month.
On Oct. 26, Ankalaev will be featured on the UFC 308 pay-per-view main card, which goes down inside the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The Russian contender's upcoming opponent is number five-ranked Aleksandar Rakic, who suffered a second-round TKO loss against Jiri Prochazka following a nearly two-year layoff.
Ankalaev vs Rakic lines up well with Pereira's next title fight, as the light heavyweight king plans to take several months off. Ankalaev has called for a matchup with 'Poatan' and now has a chance to dictate his future at UFC 308.
On the contrary, Rakic was on track to be a light heavyweight title challenger before suffering a severe knee injury against Jan Blachowicz in May 2022. Despite consecutive losses, the 32-year-old can quickly assert himself in the title picture by taking out Ankalaev in Abu Dhabi.