In the heated arena of UFC, Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira found himself responding to accusations from Magomed Ankalaev, who claimed that Pereira was avoiding a fight with him. These allegations surfaced after Pereira successfully defended his title at UFC 303 against Jiri Prochazka, leading to speculation about who his next opponent would be.
Is Pereira Avoiding a Fight with Ankalaev?
Magomed Ankalaev, who remains unbeaten in his last 11 fights, was widely expected to be Pereira’s next challenger. The 32-year-old Dagestani had captured attention with his knockout victory over Johnny Walker at UFC Vegas 84, fueling expectations that a clash with Pereira was inevitable.
However, fans were surprised when it was announced that Pereira would defend his title against Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, not Ankalaev. This decision sparked controversy, with some questioning whether the UFC was protecting its champion from a tough fight against a formidable grappler like Ankalaev.
Pereira Clarifies His Position: “I’m Not Afraid of Anyone”
In a strong response via his YouTube channel, Alex Pereira addressed these allegations. “I was very clear with the organization. Let me remind you of something: You, Ankalaev, didn’t want to fight me. I don’t know why, whether it was the location or because you didn’t want to. But I’m not avoiding anyone,” Pereira stated.
He continued, “I think this was the opportunity he had, but he didn’t take it. I don’t know his reasons, but what I can say is that I’m not afraid of anyone. Everyone knows my story and who I’ve faced, not just in MMA but also in kickboxing.”
Choosing Rountree Jr.: A Controversial Decision
Pereira didn’t hide his surprise when the UFC offered him a fight with Khalil Rountree Jr. instead of Ankalaev. “I was a little surprised when they offered me Khalil Rountree Jr. I honestly thought it would be Ankalaev. But it seems the organization believes Rountree is the right man for this fight.”
While many expect Pereira to dominate Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, the big question remains: Will this fight affect Pereira’s trajectory as a champion? Was choosing Rountree a wise decision by the UFC? Or will “The War Horse” pose a real threat to the Light Heavyweight Champion?
The controversy isn’t over, and the upcoming showdown between Pereira and Rountree Jr. raises new questions about the future of the Light Heavyweight division in the UFC. What lies ahead for Pereira? Will he prove that choosing Rountree was not an escape from Ankalaev? These questions will soon be answered in the octagon.
