Magomed Ankalaev Ready to Fight Alex Pereira for Title on December 8 at UFC 310
Talks are ongoing at the moment, according to Sukhrab Magomedov
The anticipation is building as Magomed Ankalaev prepares for a potential title fight against Alex Pereira at UFC 310, scheduled for December 8.
In an exclusive interview with Rantsports.com, Sukhrab Magomedov, Ankalaev’s coach, shed light on the current status of negotiations and the fighter’s readiness for this high-stakes matchup.
“It’s just talk at the moment,” Magomedov explained. “We haven’t received an official offer yet, but we are ready to compete on December 8. Magomed has no visa issues. Las Vegas is almost like a hometown for us.” The mention of Las Vegas highlights the significance of the location, as it’s a hub for major UFC events and a place where Ankalaev has often found success.
Ankalaev, currently a top contender in the UFC light heavyweight division, holds an impressive record of 19 wins, one loss, and one draw, along with a no contest. His only blemish came from a controversial decision, and he has since bounced back with a series of dominant performances that have solidified his status as a title challenger. The prospect of facing Pereira, the reigning champion with a record of 12 wins and 2 losses, excites both Ankalaev and his team.
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However, Magomedov expressed some skepticism about Pereira’s commitment to the fight, referencing the Brazilian’s recent comments that suggested he might seek to complicate Ankalaev’s path to the title.
This uncertainty adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, as both fighters are known for their striking prowess and competitive spirit.
The main event for UFC 310 was initially slated to feature Belal Muhammad against Shavkat Rakhmonov, but that fight was called off, opening the door for Ankalaev and Pereira to potentially clash. Following the announcement, Pereira responded with a playful smiley emoji and the message “call me,” hinting at his willingness to step into the Octagon on short notice, a role he has embraced in the past. Pereira’s readiness to fight, coupled with his experience, makes him a formidable opponent for Ankalaev.
Both fighters bring unique styles to the table. Pereira, known for his striking and knockout power, has made a name for himself with his ability to finish fights, while Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set includes strong grappling and striking capabilities. Their contrasting approaches to fighting could lead to an explosive showdown, captivating fans and pundits alike.
As the UFC continues to build excitement for UFC 310, the potential matchup between Ankalaev and Pereira represents a significant moment for both fighters. For Ankalaev, a victory would not only secure him the title but also establish him as a dominant force in the light heavyweight division. For Pereira, defending his championship against a top contender like Ankalaev would solidify his reign and showcase his resilience as a fighter.
With negotiations still ongoing, fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on this potential title fight. As December 8 approaches, the MMA world will be watching closely, ready to witness what could be a defining moment in both fighters’ careers. The anticipation is palpable, and the stakes have never been higher as Ankalaev prepares to make his case for championship glory against one of the most exciting fighters in the sport today.