Pereira’s Comeback Timeline Changed After Ankalaev Fights
Alex Pereira’s projected comeback timeline was followed by two bouts with Magomed Ankalaev. Ankalaev won by unanimous decision at UFC 313 on March 8, 2025; Pereira won the rematch by first-round TKO at UFC 320 on October 4, 2025, regaining the light heavyweight title. UFC 313 · UFC 320 results.
A Year to Remember
Pereira’s 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary. The former two-division Glory Kickboxing champion successfully defended his UFC light heavyweight title three times in just seven months, setting a new benchmark for championship activity. His most recent victory came against Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, where he secured a fourth-round TKO despite battling through various physical ailments.
Recovery and Future Plans
Following his grueling fight schedule, Pereira is now focused on recovery and healing. In a recent interview, he stated:
“Ideally, I will fight around June. I’d maybe like to fight around March even. But honestly, if it was up to me, I’d fight in December.”
However, the champion acknowledges the need for a brief hiatus due to prior commitments and appearances that were postponed because of his back-to-back fights.
Weight Class Considerations
While speculation has swirled about Pereira potentially moving up to heavyweight or returning to middleweight, the champion seems content at light heavyweight for now. He mentioned feeling “closer” to middleweight than heavyweight but also expressed satisfaction with his current weight class.
The Road Ahead
As Pereira plots his return, the UFC light heavyweight division remains on high alert. Potential challengers are likely to emerge in the coming months, setting the stage for another exciting title defense.
Conclusion
Alex Pereira’s announcement has given fans and pundits alike a timeframe to anticipate his next appearance in the UFC. As one of the most exciting fighters in the promotion, his return will undoubtedly be a highlight of the 2025 MMA calendar. With his incredible striking prowess and growing MMA skillset, Pereira’s next fight promises to be another must-watch event for fight fans worldwide.
Citations:
[1] https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/alex-pereira-next-fight
[2] https://www.si.com/fannation/mma/news/glover-teixeira-ponders-ufc-return-after-talking-with-alex-pereira
[3] https://www.ufc.com/news/alex-pereira-the-journey-continues-ufc-307
[4] https://sports.yahoo.com/next-alex-pereira-monstrous-2024-005031815.html
[5] https://www.espn.com/mma/fighter/_/id/4705658/alex-pereira
[6] https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-mma-news-ufc-world-stressed-out-over-alex-pereiras-return-plans-just-weeks-after-ufc-307/
[7] https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianmazique/2024/10/17/alex-pereira-gives-ufc-return-date-other-stars-will-need-to-step-up/
[8] https://sports.yahoo.com/alex-pereira-talks-heavyweight-jamahal-hill-return-date-jake-paul-steven-seagal-and-much-more-231604971.html?guccounter=1
