By FCF Staff

Recently, Alex Pereira has been teasing via social media that the UFC is looking at another fight for him, other than Magomed Ankalaev. But, according to the surging contender’s manager, the Dagestani fighter will challenge for the light-heavyweight crown next.

Throughout 2024, there was ongoing speculation as to if and when the UFC would book Pereira to fight Ankalaev. The latter knocked out Johnny Walker in January. Then, to the surprise of many, he was booked to fight Aleksandr Rakic in October and not Pereira. Ankalaev won that fight via decision to extend his undefeated streak to 13.

More recently, Ankalaev’s manager Ali Abdelaziz spoke with MMA Junkie.com. While discussing Pereira’s recent comments, and the champ’s next fight, he insisted Ankalaev will be next.

“Alex Pereira can say whatever he wants. That guy is such a killer,” Abdelaziz said. “He fought three fights in 167 days. Who am I to say – he cannot say whatever he wants? He’s having fun. Ankalaev’s having fun with him. But the only thing that’s going to matter – him and Ankalaev are going to be locked in a cage.

“… Alex Pereira is fighting Magomed Ankalaev next. The UFC – everything can be maneuvered, get delayed. In the UFC, the best fight with the best. It’s the only promotion in the world, I can tell you this – if you keep winning, you get to fight for a title. There’s not too much politics in the UFC.”

Pereira (12-2) is coming off a fourth-round, stoppage win over Khalil Rountree Jr. in October, which completed his 3-0, 2024 campaign.