UPDATE: Former UFC champion Alex Pereira reveals he fought at only “40 percent” strength during his loss to Magomed Ankalaev earlier this year. Pereira’s shocking admission comes just one week before their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 320 on October 4, 2023, in Las Vegas.
In a candid interview with CBS Sports, Pereira (12-3) explained the struggles he faced during their first bout at UFC 313 in March, where he lost via unanimous decision. Speculation had already circulated regarding his physical condition, with UFC commentator Joe Rogan suggesting he fought with an injured hand. Now, Pereira confirms he was indeed compromised.
“I think the conditioning I was going into that fight with, honestly, I was about 40 percent,” Pereira stated through an interpreter. “I’m going to be much more this time. Even if I’m 50 percent, that 10 percent is going to make such a difference. I’m going to leave no doubt for everybody.”
Pereira, 38, is known for his resilience, having fought through injuries in the past. Notably, he headlined UFC 300 against Jamahal Hill on short notice while nursing a broken toe. He later aggravated the injury during a title defense against Jirí Prochazka at UFC 303.
As the rematch looms, tension between Pereira and Ankalaev (21-1-1) is escalating. The two fighters confronted each other at the UFC’s Performance Institute in Las Vegas, with Pereira accusing Ankalaev of avoiding him in person after discussing him online. Ankalaev responded by stating he has lost all respect for the former champion.
Critical to this rematch is the fact that Ankalaev decisively won their first meeting, with two judges awarding him three of five rounds, while a third judge scored it four rounds to one in his favor. The stakes are high as Pereira prepares to reclaim his title, with fans eager to see how he will perform at a higher capacity.
With just days until UFC 320, all eyes are on this intense rivalry. Pereira’s determination to fight at full strength, coupled with the escalating animosity, promises an explosive rematch. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about what could unfold in the octagon as these two elite fighters clash once again.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach fight night!
