Sean Strickland believes Alex Pereira has a chance to win in a possible rematch against the current UFC light heavyweight champion, Magomed Ankalaev.
Alex Pereira, a prominent UFC star, lost his light heavyweight championship and dropped in the pound-for-pound rankings after being defeated by Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313.
Ankalaev held his own against Pereira, and despite failing in all 12 takedown attempts, he landed more strikes than the champion during their stand-up exchanges.
Ankalaev became the new champion by unanimous decision after five rounds. Reports suggested Pereira was offered an immediate rematch at UFC 317, but that event`s main slot was later filled by Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira.
Pereira, known as ‘Poatan’, might be taking a well-deserved break from the UFC, having defended his title four times in just 11 months and being highly active even prior to this period.
According to his former opponent, Sean Strickland, if Pereira faces Ankalaev again upon his return, he stands a good chance of winning, provided he makes the necessary adjustments.
Sean Strickland says Alex Pereira has a ‘great chance’ to beat Magomed Ankalaev
The reigning champion, Ankalaev, boasts a 14-fight unbeaten run and only one loss in his 24 professional fights. His victory over Pereira was Pereira`s first defeat in the light heavyweight division and second overall in the UFC, the first being a middleweight knockout loss to Israel Adesanya.
“Magomed Ankalaev is incredibly good,” Strickland stated in an interview with Red Corner MMA.
“I consider a few points,” Strickland said. “I believe Alex has a solid opportunity to defeat him in a rematch. I think Alex pushes himself too hard. Look at how many title defenses he had while moving between weight classes.”
Over two years, Pereira was involved in five title bouts, achieving three successful defenses.
Sean Strickland thinks Alex Pereira should ‘take a step back’ and stop traveling around the world
Despite not currently holding the belt, Brazil`s Pereira is globally recognized among UFC fans due to his rapid ascent through the ranks, marked by multiple knockout victories.
“Alex is a true superstar,” Strickland remarked.
“He can’t step outside without people recognizing him, saying, ‘Wow, there’s Alex. Can we get a picture?’”
“That kind of fame can definitely take a mental toll,” Strickland commented on Pereira’s celebrity status.
“So, I believe if Alex takes some time off, clears his head, comes back refreshed, and stops constantly traveling the world, he has a genuine chance of defeating Ankalaev.”
Pereira reportedly had an unusual training camp leading up to UFC 313. Some individuals, including fellow fighter Henry Cejudo, attributed his loss to his lifestyle choices prior to facing Ankalaev.
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