Sean Strickland, a former UFC middleweight champion, shared his thoughts on a potential rematch between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev for the UFC light heavyweight title. In an interview with Red Corner MMA, Strickland backed Pereira’s ability to win, emphasizing his fame and mental reset while noting Ankalaev’s lack of recognition, following Ankalaev’s title win at UFC 313 on May 16, 2025.
Sean Strickland joined the UFC in 2014, building a 29-6 record. Known for his constant striking and bold personality, he won the middleweight title by defeating Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in September 2023 but lost it to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 297 in January 2024.
Strickland’s remarks focus on Pereira’s high-profile career versus Ankalaev’s obscurity, offering a unique take on their potential rematch after Ankalaev’s upset victory at UFC 313.
Strickland’s Take on Pereira vs. Ankalaev Rematch
In his Red Corner MMA interview, Strickland expressed belief in Pereira’s chances.
“I think Alex has a great chance of beating him in the rematch… Ankalaev, right, has been on the bench for a certain amount of time. Being that active and being a superstar, like no one knows who the fuk Ankalaev is. Ankalaev walks down the street, no one knows who the fuk that guy is,” he said.
He highlighted the mental strain of Pereira’s fame, stating:
“Alex is a superstar. He can’t leave his house without someone saying, oh sht, there’s Alex, can I get a picture? That kind of takes a toll on the mind. Where you know Ankalaev is in a fucing cave somewhere. I don’t know where the fuk that guy’s from, but like he probably lives in a fucing cave somewhere. He doesn’t have to deal with the same pressures of being famous as you do in the US. So I think Alex, if he just takes a step back, clears his brain, comes in fresh, not travelling over the fuc*ing world, I think he has a legitimate shot of beating him.”
“He has a legitimate shot of beating him.”
Sean @SStricklandMMA breaks down the anticipated rematch between UFC light heavyweight champ Magomed @AnkalaevM and @AlexPereiraUFC . pic.twitter.com/cplE8sKqVG
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 26, 2025
Alex Pereira, a Brazilian with a 12-3 record, won the UFC light heavyweight title in November 2023 by knocking out Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295. He defended it against Jamahal Hill, Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree before facing Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313. A former kickboxing world champion, Pereira’s left hook and leg kicks have defined his MMA success, earning him global recognition.
Magomed Ankalaev, a Dagestani fighter with a 20-1-1 record, claimed the light heavyweight title by defeating Pereira via unanimous decision at UFC 313. Known for his wrestling and durable chin, Ankalaev neutralized Pereira’s striking with clinch work and pressure, though he landed no takedowns. His win marked his 12th straight unbeaten fight, following a draw with Jan Blachowicz in 2022 and knockouts over Johnny Walker and Aleksandar Rakic.
Pereira’s loss at UFC 313 was his first at light heavyweight, prompting UFC CEO Dana White to suggest an immediate rematch. Pereira posted on social media on March 9, 2025, promising adjustments for a rematch, while Ankalaev teased a July 2025 date during International Fight Week, claiming he signed a contract. However, posts on X indicate Pereira has not yet agreed, with some accusing him of delaying, though his team cites the need for a full training camp.
Strickland’s comments emphasize Pereira’s need to rest and refocus, given his active schedule of four fights in 12 months. Ankalaev’s lower profile, Strickland argues, spares him the mental strain of fame, but Pereira’s striking could prevail if he prepares properly.
