The professional MMA world has always been as much about mind games as it is about physical fighting. The UFC light heavyweight division has not been active since Magomed Ankalaev dethroned Alex Pereira at UFC 313. Ankalaev keeps saying Pereira dodges a rematch, which has stirred up even more drama. But now, the former champion seems to have devised a clever way to clap back at all the talk from Ankalaev.
Alex Pereira’s Indirect Response to Magomed Ankalaev’s Ducking Allegations
At UFC 313, Ankalaev ended Pereira’s reign and won unanimously to claim the UFC light heavyweight title. Ankalaev managed to outmaneuver Pereira and kept the pressure on him with his clinch work, even though none of Ankalaev’s takedown attempts worked.
It was a massive upset against the fan-favorite “Poatan,” who was getting into the GOAT conversations with his three title defenses via knockout. After the fight, both fighters and Dana White hinted that a rematch was likely the next step. Pereira even shared a post on his Instagram where he said:
“Some marks, but I’m good. Gonna rest a bit, I’ll be back like I’ve always done.” He mentioned that he will be making some “adjustments for the rematch,” and will be “back much better.”
But things took a slightly different turn when Ankalaev began accusing Pereira of avoiding the rematch. This turned the fight into a back-and-forth and built a narrative against “Poatan.”
In one tweet, Ankalaev said he was offered to fight Pereira in the International Fight Week, but the Brazilian ignored that offer.
I was offered to Fight Alex international fight week if the man don’t want it let’s move on I’m ready for everyone. I dare you.
— Muhammad big ANK Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) May 11, 2025
In another tweet, the light-heavyweight champion claimed that both the top contenders—Jiřà Procházka and Pereira—don’t want to fight him. He then challenged any other fighter in the division.
Guys is there anyone in the Light Heavyweight division who’s willing to fight me?
Because Jiri and Alex do not want to fight.
— Muhammad big ANK Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) May 14, 2025
In a recent tweet, Ankalaev claimed that Pereira is “done” and “he’s never coming back.”
Alex done he never coming back let’s move on June July August I said yes
— Muhammad big ANK Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) June 1, 2025
These posts stirred up a lot of talk among fans. Some are backing Ankalaev’s claims, while others are standing by Pereira, pointing out that he has never shied away from tough fights.
Now, it seems like “Poatan” has had enough of rumors and claims against him. Pereira recently shared a promotional ad for “Total Wireless” on Instagram, where he took an indirect dig at Ankalaev’s claims.
Pereira said, “I just want to set the record straight. I always answer the UFC calls because I’ve got ‘Total Wireless’ in my corner. Excited to announce, I’m officially a ‘Total Wireless’ ambassador. Some of you spotted me wearing their gear. And because of ‘Total Wireless,’ I’ll be able to stay connected with my friends and fans around the world throughout this camp. Thanks ‘Total Wireless’ for having my back. See you in the octagon soon!”
View this post on Instagram
The standout line – “I always answer the UFC calls” – feels like more than just a promotional script. This statement reads as a direct counter-narrative to Ankalaev’s accusations about “Poatan” ducking and avoiding him. The phrase “See you in the octagon soon” further suggests that Pereira is preparing for a return, most probably for the rematch.
Moreover, Pereira has consciously decided not to engage directly with Ankalaev’s back-and-forth on social media. During an interview with UFC Brasil, he said, “He’s promoting himself by saying my name. No one knows he’s the champion, so when he says my name, he appears a little. But I’m not responding to his provocations, because I know it’s just for promotion.”