Ali Abdelaziz, the head of Dominance MMA and manager of Magomed Ankalaev, addressed the remarks from UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira about the Russian not being his next opponent.
Pereira can 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.
Ali Abdelaziz
Magomed Ankalaev last fought in October 2024 at UFC 308, winning against Aleksandar Rakic by unanimous decision. His record includes 19 wins, one loss, and one draw, with one fight declared a no contest.
Alex Pereira's last fight was in October 2024 at UFC 307, where he defeated Khalil Rountree by technical knockout in the fourth round. He boasts a record of 12 wins and two losses.