Magomed Ankalaev mocks Alex Pereira for only knowing how to dance like the girls on social media ahead of UFC 313
UFC light heavyweight contender Magomed Ankalaev has ignited a war of words with reigning champion Alex Pereira, mocking the Brazilian’s focus on social media rather than training for their upcoming clash at UFC 313. The Russian powerhouse, who boasts an impressive 20-1 MMA record, has accused Pereira of being more concerned with dancing on TikTok than preparing for what he promises will be the fight of his life.
Ankalaev Questions Pereira’s Focus
The tension between the two fighters escalated when Pereira was spotted in Sean Strickland’s corner at UFC 312 in Australia, instead of dedicating his full attention to training for his March 8 title defense. Ankalaev, frustrated by what he perceives as Pereira’s lack of seriousness, took to social media to fire shots at the champion.
“I don’t think he’s taking this fight seriously. While I’ve been training in the Dagestani mountains, chopping wood, and swimming in freezing lakes, he’s been making dance videos like a TikTok influencer,” Ankalaev wrote on his X account.
A Personal Fight for Ankalaev
For Ankalaev, this fight isn’t just about securing the UFC light heavyweight title—it’s personal. The Dagestani fighter has made it clear that he sees Pereira as a fake humble champion who doesn’t respect his opponents.
“I have never wanted to hurt someone more in my life than I want to hurt Alex Pereira,” Ankalaev declared. “Brazil, I’m sorry for what I’m about to do to your boy. He won’t be the same after this fight.”
Ankalaev’s undefeated streak in his last 11 UFC fights has made him one of the most feared competitors in the division. His dominant wrestling, powerful striking, and ironclad endurance make him a formidable threat to any fighter—including a knockout artist like Pereira.
Pereira Fires Back: ‘He’s Just Another Opponent’
Despite Ankalaev’s trash talk, Pereira remains unfazed. The Brazilian champion, known for his elite kickboxing skills and devastating knockout power, sees his opponent as just another challenger attempting to take his belt.
“Looking at him, at how he fights—he’s just an ordinary guy,” Pereira told ESPN. “Of course, he has his strengths and some threats, but I’ve been training hard and improving every day. I’m ready for him.”
Pereira, a former middleweight champion, moved up to the light heavyweight division and quickly established himself as the king. He has successfully defended his title three times, and many believe that his striking ability will be too much for Ankalaev to handle.
A Clash of Styles: Can Ankalaev Handle Pereira’s Power?
One of the biggest questions leading into UFC 313 is whether Ankalaev’s wrestling and durability can neutralize Pereira’s elite striking. Many analysts believe that if the Russian can take Pereira to the ground and control him, he has a great chance to dominate the fight.
However, Pereira has warned Ankalaev that all the talk leading up to the fight will mean nothing if he can’t back it up in the octagon.
“If he doesn’t deliver on his words, everyone knows how I treat guys who talk too much. I will make him regret it,” Pereira said in response to Ankalaev’s threats.
Who Will Prevail at UFC 313?
With fight night fast approaching, the tension between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira continues to build. Will Ankalaev’s wrestling and toughness be enough to dethrone the champion? Or will Pereira once again prove that his knockout power is unmatched?
