UFC fans still can’t stop talking about Alex Pereira’s first fight with Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313. The former middleweight champ suffered a unanimous decision loss—and according to analysts, it all came down to one critical mistake: he respected Ankalaev too much.
🥊 Respect Turned Into a Weakness
During the fight, Pereira held back, giving Ankalaev the space to control the pace and dictate the action. UFC analyst Dan Hardy explained that Pereira’s caution cost him big:
“I think maybe Pereira had a little too much respect for Ankalaev. When he’s at close range, you can feel the pressure of his frame. Pereira needed to be more aggressive and push the action.”
By holding back, Pereira allowed Ankalaev to stay comfortable, dodge strikes, and impose his rhythm—turning the fight in Ankalaev’s favor.
💥 Teixeira Weighs In: The Rematch Is a Different Story
Former light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira, a mentor to Pereira, believes the rematch will be completely different.
“The first round will be brutal. Poatan won’t hold back this time. He’ll press the action the entire fight because he’s ready for it,” Teixeira said.
With mental focus and a more aggressive strategy, Pereira is poised to correct the mistakes that cost him the first fight.
🔥 UFC 320: The Rematch You Can’t Miss
The UFC 320 rematch on October 4, 2025 promises fireworks. Fans can expect a more aggressive, dynamic Pereira, hungry to reclaim the light heavyweight crown.
If he executes the right strategy, one thing is certain: Ankalaev will be in for the fight of his life.
