UPDATE: Former UFC champion Alex Pereira is set for an urgent rematch against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320 in Las Vegas this Saturday, following a controversial loss in March. Pereira, who was notably less than 100% for their first encounter, claims he is now fully recovered and ready to reclaim his title.
In a shocking turn of events during their initial fight at UFC 313 on March 18, Pereira (12-3) lost his light heavyweight championship to Ankalaev (21-1-1) by unanimous decision. Pereira’s manager, Jorge Guimarães, revealed that it was unusual for Pereira to voice his discomfort before a fight. “He never complains, except when he’s losing weight,” Guimarães told ESPN. However, this time was different; Pereira expressed significant distress about his condition leading up to the bout.
Reports indicate that Pereira was dealing with a stress fracture in his tibia and a severe illness just weeks before the fight. His physical therapist, Kaue Yub, noted that Pereira’s immunity was low due to overtraining, resulting in him being only “40%” of his usual self during the fight. “He fought too many times,” Yub stated, emphasizing the toll of an intense fight schedule.
Pereira’s loss marked one of his worst performances in the UFC, with judges scoring the fight 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47 against him. Now, as he prepares for this critical rematch at UFC 320, he is the betting underdog at +210, signaling a shift in expectations. UFC commentator Joe Rogan mentioned that Pereira’s struggles were apparent, which has only intensified the urgency of this upcoming fight.
Reflecting on his past performance, Pereira acknowledged, “As soon as I stepped out of the Octagon that night, I knew what I needed to correct.” He emphasized the importance of healing and self-care, stating that the seven months between fights might be the best thing he could have done.
In the lead-up to UFC 320, Pereira has adopted a more rigorous training camp in Danbury, Connecticut, under the guidance of former champion Glover Teixeira. His coach, Plinio Cruz, confirmed that Pereira’s approach this time has been different: “We stayed home and we stayed in the gym.” This focus has sparked confidence within Pereira’s camp as they prepare for a pivotal fight that could reshape his career.
The stakes are high as Pereira aims to not just reclaim his title but also silence critics who doubt his capabilities following the March setback. His emotional and physical journey back to the octagon has drawn considerable attention, with fans eager to see if the former champion can deliver a comeback worthy of his legacy.
As UFC 320 approaches, all eyes will be on Pereira and Ankalaev, with the world waiting to see if Pereira’s new strategy and healing will translate into victory. The event is set to begin at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN PPV, and anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
Stay tuned for live updates as this developing story unfolds in the world of mixed martial arts.
