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Analysis: What’s next for UFC star Alex Pereira?
Volkan Oezdemir, Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev. Photo via Instagram and UFC
Alex Pereira is well on his way of becoming a true legend in MMA. In just three years he has accomplished more than most UFC veterans could ever dream of:
- 6 wins over former UFC champions
- 4 UFC title fights in 11 months
- 3 UFC title defenses in 175 days
At this past Saturday’s UFC 307, he beat Khalil Rountree’s face into pulp as he defended the light heavyweight title for a third time.
So what’s next for the UFC superstar? Click next to see five possible matchups for Alex Pereira!
Magomed Ankalaev
Magomed Ankalaev. Photo: Peter Casey – USA TODAY Sports
There is a lot on the line when Magomed Ankalaev fights next. The Dagestani light heavyweight has been very vocal about once again getting to fight for the belt, and with a win against Aleksandar Rakic, at UFC 208 in a few weeks, he will almost certainly challenge for the title next.
Many believe that Ankalaev, with his well-rounded game, could be the toughest opponent for Pereira at light heavyweight.
Aleksandar Rakic
Aleksandar Rakic. Photo: Per Häljestam – USA TODAY Sports
The athletic former kickboxer Aleksandar Rakic is potentially just one win away from a title shot. With a win against Ankalaev, the championship fight should be in reach for the 32-year-old.
Standing 6 ft 5 in (196 cm) tall, with a 78 in (198 cm) reach, Rakic presents a threat to anyone in the 205 division. However, facing a technically sound and patient striker like Pereira, he should probably use the full MMA arsenal to be successful in a five-round title fight.
Volkan Oezdemir
Volkan Oezdemir. Photo via YouTube
With a convincing win in November, against No. 10 ranked Carlos Ulberg, Volkan Oezdemir could put himself in a good position to fight for the title next.
Oezdemir’s strong physique and devastating one-punch KO power is the key to win a potential fight against ”Poatan.”
Nikita Krylov
Volkan Oezdemir and Nikita Krylov at UFC 280. Photo via Twitter (UFC)
Not so likely, but depending on the other top ranked fighters injuries and availability, No. 6 ranked Nikita Krylov could be a potential name for Alex Pereira. The matchup is not the biggest fight from a selling perspective, but Krylov has proved to be a tough, resilient fighter and currently holds three straight wins.
He is scheduled to face Azamat Murzakanov on November 16 at UFC 309. Adding a fourth win to his name might put him in a good position to fight for the belt in 2025.
Move up to heavyweight to fight for the title
Tom Aspinall. Photo via YouTube
One scenario, as far-fetched as it may be, is that Jon Jones would call it a day if he beats Stipe Miocic in November. Who would be interim champion Tom Aspinall’s biggest opponent for unifying the belt? Light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.
This is of course a ’what if’ scenario, but Aspinall vs. Pereira would most likely be the biggest fight of 2025.
This is Alex Pereira
Alex Pereira. Photo via YouTube
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Age: 37
- MMA record: 12-2
- UFC record: 9-1
- UFC title fights: 6
- UFC title defenses: 3