Magomed Ankalaev has voiced doubts over Alex Pereira’s preparation ahead of their highly anticipated UFC 320 rematch, following new training footage that has left fans scratching their heads.
The light heavyweight champion, who defeated Pereira via unanimous decision in March at UFC 313, observed the Brazilian star defending consecutive takedowns from multiple training partners. Ankalaev, whose own wrestling was widely regarded as a key factor in their first encounter, noted that Pereira’s focus may be misplaced.
“This guy bring Punch Taxi driver to help him with Wrestling,” Ankalaev commented on X. “You don’t need to worry about Wrestling, I’m gonna find this big head again.”
Fans of the sport echoed Ankalaev’s sentiment, pointing out that Pereira’s UFC 313 loss came primarily on the feet, with Ankalaev failing to land a single takedown. Many questioned why Pereira appeared to be emphasizing grappling defense rather than sharpening his striking game, which was the decisive factor in their initial matchup.
“Bro needs to work on his striking and getting off the cage,” one fan commented, while another added, “All this just to sit back & wait to defend the takedowns that never come, again?”
As the fighters prepare for UFC 320 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on October 4, the spotlight will now be on whether Pereira can adjust his training to address the aspects that cost him the first bout, or if Ankalaev’s prediction will prove prescient once again.
