What’s Next for Alex Pereira After Losing the Belt at UFC 313?

On March 8, 2025, at UFC 313, the light heavyweight landscape shifted as Alex Pereira lost his title to Magomed Ankalaev by unanimous decision. It was a definitive win for Ankalaev, who implemented a calculated, control-heavy approach that disrupted Pereira’s rhythm from start to finish. The former champion, known for his world-class striking and devastating knockout power, struggled to impose his usual pace, and for the first time at 205 pounds, walked out of the cage without the belt.

Ankalaev’s victory was a tactical masterclass. His footwork, positional control, and selective striking neutralized Pereira’s lethal left hook and chopping leg kicks. By closing the distance smartly and controlling the pace, Ankalaev prevented Pereira from ever getting comfortable. Over five measured rounds, he frustrated Pereira’s forward pressure and limited his output, sweeping the scorecards and claiming the UFC Light Heavyweight title.

Despite the setback, Pereira’s stature in the sport remains substantial. As a former two-division UFC champion and ex-Glory kickboxing titleholder, he still commands attention from fans and UFC brass alike. UFC President Dana White has long favored fighters who deliver knockouts and drive pay-per-view numbers, and Pereira’s violent highlight reel ensures he remains a top draw. While an immediate rematch isn’t guaranteed, it remains a possibility given Pereira’s past dominance and box office appeal.

Before UFC 313, Pereira’s rapid rise at light heavyweight was nothing short of spectacular. After moving up from middleweight—where he had dethroned Israel Adesanya—he beat former champion Jan Błachowicz via split decision and then brutally knocked out Jiri Procházka to win the belt. That brief but explosive run solidified him as a dominant force at 205 lbs. His forward pressure, power, and ability to finish fights made him one of the most exciting champions in recent memory.

Ankalaev’s game plan to nullify that danger came through precise movement, grappling threats, and constant disruption. By mixing in clinch work and remaining unpredictable, he turned the fight into a tactical chess match that favored his skill set. He didn’t allow Pereira to settle into range or fire off combinations, proving that elite game-planning can beat even the most feared strikers in the sport.

Should the UFC opt against a rematch, a clash with Aleksandar Rakić would make perfect sense. Rakić brings a technical striking base with strong lateral movement, a skillset that could test Pereira in a high-level kickboxing-style chess match. It would be a compelling matchup between two tacticians, and a victory over Rakić could quickly place Pereira back in the title conversation.

Another intriguing possibility is a fight with Johnny Walker. Unlike Rakić, Walker offers chaos—flying knees, spinning attacks, and an unpredictable style that could either overwhelm Pereira or leave Walker exposed to Pereira’s precise counters. The contrast in approach could make for a fan-favorite spectacle, and for Pereira, it’s a high-risk, high-reward opportunity that could reignite his momentum.

Even outside the traditional title picture, Pereira’s name carries weight. A legacy bout—perhaps a catchweight fight or a special-rules event—remains a lucrative direction. His history at middleweight opens doors for rematches or rivalries with former foes, and his cross-sport appeal keeps him viable for unique opportunities beyond rankings or divisions.

One area Pereira must now address is the defensive gaps Ankalaev exposed. Improving his takedown defense, clinch escape, and ability to cut angles under pressure could be the difference in future five-round bouts. Given how Pereira has already evolved from kickboxer to two-division UFC champion, adding layers to his game isn’t just necessary—it’s expected.

The division is in flux now, with names like Jamahal Hill, Jan Błachowicz, Nikita Krylov, and rising talents such as Carlos Ulberg all jockeying for position. Pereira’s star power keeps him in the mix, but staying active and winning the right fight—or two—will be key to securing another shot at gold.

Ultimately, UFC 313 was just a pivot point. Alex Pereira remains a must-watch attraction. Whether through a rematch with Ankalaev, a top contender showdown, or a legacy-defining superfight, his journey is far from over. The road to redemption in 2025 is wide open—and Pereira still has plenty of thunder left in his hands.