205lbs god-king Alex Pereira has become a topic of criticism among MMA fans since last week. Inactive since his third title defense last October, ‘Poatan’ recently announced his targeted return in March, coinciding with the rumored UFC 313 event in Florida. However, this timeline has sparked significant controversy, as it overlaps with the holy month of Ramadan. Critics have accused the Brazilian of strategically timing his return to avoid Magomed Ankalaev, the #1 ranked 205fer who observes Ramadan owing to his faith.
UFC commentator Joe Rogan even added fuel to the debate, stating, “If he’s [Alex] fighting in March, when is Ramadan? Ankalaev wouldn’t be able to fight during that time… That’s exactly the period when the Pereira wants to fight.” As Ramadan entails fasting and restricts rigorous training, fans suspect Pereira’s decision may be an attempt to sidestep a formidable challenger. Pereira faces a stylistic challenge from Ankalaev, celebrated for his exceptional grappling and striking.
The possibility of missing a matchup that could truly test the Brazilian’s abilities against a versatile opponent disheartens many fans. Amid the controversy, another contender, former champion Jan Blachowicz, has thrown his name into the mix, expressing interest in a rematch with ‘Poatan’. Speaking to MMA Fighting, the 205fer remarked, “I’m not dreaming about a match against him, but after my next fight, I’ll focus on that. If I win, I believe I deserve the rematch like nobody else in the division.”
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Ex-UFC champion’s honest prediction for potential Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev
Following the rumored Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall fight, the next major clash occupying the minds of fans and oddsmakers alike is the lightweight showdown between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev. This fight has been a topic of speculation since last year, and its likelihood of happening is increasing as ‘Poatan’ could face Ankalaev shortly—unless Pereira opts to move to the heavyweight division, a transition that remains uncertain. However, White has dismissed reports about the Brazilian moving up in weight.
Despite the fight still being far from certain, it hasn’t stopped UFC legends Henry Cejudo and Kamaru Usman from discussing it on their YouTube podcast, “P4P.” Like many fans, both fighters are eager to see how Pereira’s elite kickboxing skills would fare against Ankalaev’s Dagestani wrestling.
While many favor Ankalaev’s grappling ability, Cejudo, an Olympic gold medalist, believes ‘Poatan’ would prevail, downplaying Ankalaev’s wrestling. Cejudo confidently stated, “I don’t see a threat in Ankalaev against Alex Pereira. So, I’m going to have to go with Alex Pereira, dude. I think he can remain champ.”
When Usman reminded Cejudo of his earlier prediction, where he had suggested Ankalaev could dethrone Pereira, Cejudo explained, “Why, Kamaru? Because he [Ankalaev] doesn’t use it [wrestling]. He doesn’t do it in fights. And he’s talking about wanting to stand on his feet. There’s nobody at 205 with any type of grappling, besides Jan Blachowicz.”
What are your thoughts on a potential matchup between Alex Pereira and Jan Blachowicz? Is this the fight that fans are eager to see, or should the Brazilian consider leaping to the heavyweight division to face fighters like Tom Aspinall or Jon Jones? Who do you believe would be the ideal next opponent for Alex Pereira at 205 lbs? Share your opinion below!
The post With No Main Event for UFC 313, Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Takes a Turn as Jan Blachowicz Breaks Silence appeared first on EssentiallySports.