Dana White: Magomed Ankalaev, Alex Pereira Rematch ‘Probably’ Next

Dana White: Magomed Ankalaev, Alex Pereira Rematch ‘Probably’ Next

At UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev dethroned Alex Pereira to become the UFC light heavyweight champion. It likely will not be the last time the pair compete, however. UFC CEO Dana White believes a rematch between the two will ‘probably’ be next.

“Probably,” White said at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference when asked if a rematch between Ankalaev and Pereira would be next.

The UFC 313 main event was a closely contested bout. Ankalaev won the bout on all three judges scorecards with scores of 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47.

A rematch between Ankalaev and Pereira is compelling for various reasons. The fact that the initial bout was close will help a second bout sell. It would be far less compelling if the bout was one-sided. Additionally, the UFC light heavyweight division is not stacked with title contenders. Jiri Prochazka is the only fighter with a concrete argument about fighting. It will take the remainder of the division time to earn a title fight.

Pereira has built a large amount of good fortune with the UFC over the last year. In his reign as the light heavyweight champion, he was an active champion who took bouts on short notice. Those favors should come back in his favor as he looks to get a title opportunity.

On the opposite side of the equation, Ankalaev’s status as champion would be lifted with a second win over Pereira. In that regard, it makes it a win-win for the promotion to book the rematch.

The one major flaw that pokes a hole in the argument for an Ankalaev and Pereira rematch is that their initial bout was not very entertaining. Although, that does not seem like an issue that will prevent the fight from taking place.

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