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Pereira Reclaims Title with Stunning First-Round Stoppage in Ankalaev-vs-Pereira-2 Rematch Alex Pereira delivered a stunning performance in Las Vegas on Saturday night, recapturing the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship by defeating Magomed Ankalaev via technical knockout (TKO) in the first round of their highly anticipated rematch, UFC 320. The contest, held at the T-Mobile Arena, brought an emphatic and swift resolution to the rivalry between the two elite light heavyweights, who had previously faced off just seven months prior. Pereira’s dominant victory marks him as a two-time champion in the 205-pound division, simultaneously bringing an end to Ankalaev’s formidable 14-match unbeaten run within the promotion. The Dynamics of the Rematch The first encounter, which took place in March at UFC 313, saw the Dagestani fighter, Ankalaev, secure the title via a unanimous decision after a tactical five-round battle. That bout was widely characterised by Ankalaev’s measured pressure, effective cage control, and successful neutralisation of the Brazilian’s legendary knockout power. The lead-up to the second contest was dominated by discussions surrounding the adjustments both men would make. Analysts had suggested that the former champion, Pereira, would need to increase his volume and urgency to prevent Ankalaev from dictating the pace. Pereira, known as ‘Poatan’ (Stone Hand), appeared to heed this advice immediately. From the opening bell, the 38-year-old launched a high-pressure assault, refusing to be drawn into the defensive posture that characterised their first meeting.
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The decisive sequence occurred just over a minute into the first round. Pereira connected with a powerful overhand right to the temple of the champion, visibly staggering Ankalaev. As the Russian attempted to secure a desperate takedown to recover, Pereira expertly stuffed the attempt, following his opponent to the mat and landing a ferocious flurry of punches and elbows, forcing referee Herb Dean to intervene and stop the contest at the 1:20 mark. Context and Injury Concerns The swift conclusion to the light heavyweight saga has inevitably led to scrutiny over the state of both fighters in their respective appearances. Following his initial loss in March, Pereira had suggested that his performance was hindered by undisclosed injuries and health issues. Speaking through a translator immediately after reclaiming the title, Pereira addressed these claims, stating: “I wasn't well that night [the first fight], but tonight I was very well. I don't like to make excuses, but I’ve been saying I wasn't well that night, but tonight I'm very well. ” The emphatic nature of the TKO victory offered powerful substantiation of his earlier comments regarding his physical condition. However, subsequent reports following the TKO have revealed that Ankalaev, who entered the bout as the defending champion, may also have been competing under duress.
Sources close to the former champion’s camp indicate that he had sustained a rib injury in the preparation phase for UFC 320. Although competition with minor injuries is common at this level of elite sport, the timing and severity of such an injury would be a significant factor in explaining the uncharacteristic defeat, the first knockout loss of Ankalaev’s professional career. Title Implications and Future Challengers The result resets the landscape of the competitive Light Heavyweight division, which has seen considerable volatility in recent years. With the series now tied at one win apiece, questions about an unprecedented trilogy bout loom. However, an immediate third match appears unlikely due to the convincing nature of Pereira’s finish and the success of another top contender on the same fight card. In a pivotal title eliminator earlier in the evening, former champion Jiří Procházka delivered a spectacular knockout of Khalil Rountree Jr. in the third round, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. Procházka, who previously lost the title to Pereira via TKO in November 2023, has now positioned himself strongly for a shot at the newly crowned champion. Should the promotion decide to move forward with a fresh challenge, a third pairing between Pereira and Procházka would serve as a compelling main event for late 2025 or early 2026.
According to long-time mixed martial arts analyst John McCarthy, the immediate future may depend on the financial drivers of the sport. "The dominant nature of Alex's win here makes it difficult to justify an immediate trilogy," McCarthy told reporters. "Ankalaev needs a dominant win against a top-five contender to earn that call-back. Right now, the money fight, and the most dangerous stylistic challenge for Pereira, is clearly Procházka. " Outlook for the Division Alex Pereira's victory cements his reputation as one of the most successful kickboxers to transition to mixed martial arts. Having held championship belts in two weight classes, his reign at light heavyweight now begins anew. For Magomed Ankalaev, the path back to the title will require careful planning by the UFC matchmakers. Though the loss snaps his dominant streak, his overall record and skills remain highly respected. With the light heavyweight belt now firmly around the waist of the dangerous Brazilian striker, the division has arguably returned to its most volatile and exciting state, promising high-stakes matchups for the remainder of the year.
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