UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira recently hinted at who his next opponent might be, and it’s not one of the usual suspects. He took to his Instagram Stories to express gratitude for his fans’ ongoing support and shared his optimism for the new year. Pereira reported having positive discussions with the UFC and his team, indicating that a fight is “almost finalized.”
The following day, Pereira posted a video clip of himself staring down Jamahal Hill inside the octagon. In his caption, he revealed plans to face Jamahal Hill and then immediately defend his title, aiming to break a record by making two title defenses in the shortest possible time.
Meanwhile, UFC light heavyweight contender Magomed Ankalaev started the year with an impressive win against Johnny Walker in a second-round knockout rematch. In a post-fight press conference, he sent a message to champion Alex Pereira and his coach, Glover Teixeira, urging them to prepare themselves for his arrival. Ankalaev promised to fight on his feet and not use wrestling tactics against “Poatan.”
Ankalaev, who ranked No. 3 before his last fight, may climb higher in the rankings after his notable Performance of the Night. He emphasized his desire to send a message by not wrestling Johnny Walker and instead aiming for a knockout. He warned Teixeira not to waste time teaching Pereira how to wrestle or grapple, confidently stating that he will face him standing up and that Pereira will not feel comfortable there.
With an exciting year ahead, fans eagerly await new UFC developments and upcoming fights, as fighters like Pereira and Ankalaev strive to make their mark and secure their titles.
