Magomed Ankalaev confidently reports that he will have no problem with champion Alex Pereira, but former light heavyweight rulers Jiří Procházka and Jan Blachowicz beg to differ.
Ankalaev believes in victory, but faces a tough test
Magomed Ankalaev is convinced he has what it takes to dethrone Alex Pereira from the light heavyweight throne. The Dagestani does not worry too much about the strength of the Brazilian ruler. “I don’t expect a tough match. I’ve had much tougher fights before,” he said confidently, only undermining the champion’s skills. But his enthusiasm is not shared by other elite fighters.
Prochazka’s prediction
The Czech fighter and former light heavyweight champion sees Pereira as a clear favorite. According to him, Ankalaev’s strategy based on stance fighting cannot work against the Brazilian machine. “If Alex stays in the form he showed in the last matches, Ankalaev has no chance. If he wants to fight in the stance he says, it will be the end of him.” Procházka said in an interview with Ariel Helwani.
Procházka experienced Pereira’s power himself during two head-to-head duels, which confirmed to him that Alex’s dominance in the stance was almost unshakable.
Blachowicz: Ankalaev must change strategy
Polish veteran Jan Blachowicz agrees with Procházka’s opinion. “If Ankalaev fights like he did against Rakic, he has no chance. They have to change a lot. He is too cautious and lacks confidence in his own style.” Blachowicz said.
- Cautious tactics: In recent matches, Ankalaev presented himself with a defensive style that put the audience to sleep rather than entertain.
- Pereira pressure: The Brazilian champion mercilessly punishes every mistake and his strength in stance is deadly.
Blachowicz also recalled Ankalaev’s words before the fight with Rakic when he promised a new version of himself. “Result? Boring match. If he does it again, Pereira will deal with him.’
Despite the harsh criticism, the fight between Ankalaev and Pereira remains one of the most anticipated duels in the UFC. So far, it looks like we’ll see it come spring 2025, but we’re still waiting for some confirmation from the organization.
Zdroj: Ariel Helwani Show
