Magomed Ankalaev plans to make a comeback in May, aiming to reestablish himself in the UFC light heavyweight division and resolve his ongoing rivalry with Alex Pereira. The Dagestani fighter revealed his intentions during a recent interview, expressing a strong desire to settle their unfinished business inside the Octagon.
Ankalaev Discusses Upcoming Fight and Trilogy Prospects
Speaking with Russian journalist Igor Lazorin while attending an MMA event, Ankalaev (21-2-1 MMA, 12-2-1 UFC) addressed questions about his next matchup as well as the possibility of a third bout against Brazilian champion Alex Pereira (13-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC). The former champion reflected on his rise in the light heavyweight ranks and hinted at long-term plans that might involve competing at heavyweight after settling his rivalry.
Recap of Their Intense Rivalry
Ankalaev built an impressive 14-fight undefeated streak between 2018 and early 2025, climaxing with a dominant five-round decision against Pereira at UFC 313 last March, where he claimed the light heavyweight title. However, their rivalry shifted dramatically during their October rematch at UFC 320, when Pereira unexpectedly knocked him out in less than two minutes to regain the championship and even their score.
Future Plans and Uncertainty Around Opponent
Despite the setback, Ankalaev remains determined to fight for the belt again. He confirmed his target for a May return but noted that his next opponent has yet to be announced. He also mentioned the lack of communication regarding a third fight with Pereira, leaving the trilogy uncertain for the moment.
“I want to fight for the belt, of course,”
“They said (my next fight) would be in May, but the opponent is still unknown.”
“I don’t know whether he is refusing or not, but for now, there’s no news from him yet,”
Considering a Step Up to Heavyweight
Besides seeking to settle the score at light heavyweight, Ankalaev revealed that moving up to the heavyweight division is a possible future ambition. However, he emphasized that this transition will only happen once his rivalry with Pereira reaches a conclusion, regardless of whether their next encounter is for the title or not.
“Yes, but first I want to settle my rivalry with Pereira. It doesn’t matter if it’s for the belt or if it’s just a regular fight. I’ll move up to heavyweight after that, maybe.”
Awaiting UFC Confirmation and What Lies Ahead
Currently, Ankalaev is poised to wait for official announcements from the UFC regarding his next bout. His planned return in May could mark a pivotal moment in one of the light heavyweight division’s most compelling storylines, potentially leading to a trilogy that would finally resolve the intense competition between him and Pereira.
