Sun Oct 06 07:54:42 UTC 2024: ## Ankalaev Backs Pereira Ahead of UFC 307 Bout, Eyes Title Shot After Rakic Clash

Despite being the expected next challenger for Alex Pereira’s light heavyweight title, Magomed Ankalaev will instead face Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 308. Ankalaev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has revealed that the undefeated fighter will be rooting for Pereira to defeat Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307.

While Abdelaziz believes Ankalaev poses the toughest challenge for Pereira, he insists that the champion is not avoiding a fight against the Russian. He attributes the matchup to a UFC decision.

“I don’t think Alex is ducking him,” Abdelaziz said. “I think it’s the UFC’s decision. I don’t think Alex is the guy ducking people.”

Ankalaev is undefeated since 2018 and has his sights set on the title shot after overcoming Rakic. Abdelaziz is confident in his fighter’s ability to defeat Rakic and set up a highly anticipated clash with Pereira.

“If you want us to beat Rakic, we’ll beat Rakic,” Abdelaziz stated. “Now Pereira has to do his job and beat Khalil Rountree. It’s not an easy task. I don’t think it’s an easy fight.”

Pereira has confirmed that he is keen on defending his title in his next fight and will not be moving down weight classes. The winner of Ankalaev vs. Rakic is expected to be next in line for a title shot against Pereira, setting the stage for a battle between the two top light heavyweights in the world.

Read More