Following UFC 320, Alex Pereira has emerged as a champion with potential super-fight opportunities. On Saturday night, Pereira reclaimed his light heavyweight title with a spectacular first-round knockout of Magomed Ankalaev. This victory places him among ten elite UFC fighters who have secured championships in two divisions.
Contenders Eager for Title Shot
After reclaiming his title, Pereira is now the target for several challengers. Notable contenders include:
- Former champion Jiri Prochazka
- Ranked contender Carlos Ulberg
These fighters are positioned to potentially face Pereira as he continues to establish his legacy in the Octagon.
Khamzat Chimaev’s Challenge
Khamzat Chimaev, the reigning middleweight champion, quickly responded to Pereira’s victory. He congratulated Pereira but also made it clear that he is interested in a fight. Chimaev posted on X, saying, “@AlexPereiraUFC Congrats, now we need to finish our business.”
This ongoing callout from Chimaev has been happening for years, long before both fighters claimed their championship titles at 185 lbs and 205 lbs. The potential clash between Pereira and Chimaev could be one of the most anticipated matches in the UFC.
Highlighting Pereira’s Skills
A significant aspect of Pereira’s recent performance was his enhanced takedown defense. Throughout both of his matches with Ankalaev, he demonstrated remarkable ability to counter grappling attempts. In their initial matchup at UFC 313, Pereira successfully defended against all 12 takedowns attempted by Ankalaev. This trend continued in UFC 320, where he again thwarted Ankalaev before delivering a knockout finish.
Striker vs. Grappler Showdown
The possible matchup between Pereira and Chimaev is characterized by a classic striker versus grappler dynamic. While doubts have surrounded Pereira’s grappling abilities, he has consistently shown growth and resilience in his defense. As both fighters stand at the top of their respective divisions, fans eagerly await any developments regarding their potential bout.
