On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Alex Pereira will enter the octagon once again to face Magomed Ankalaev at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, United States. This rematch comes after Pereira’s loss to Ankalaev earlier this year on March 8, where he succumbed in the fifth round. Since then, Pereira has been laser-focused on preparing for this bout, determined to overcome his previous defeat.
Magomed Ankalaev, with an impressive record of 21-1-1, has become a formidable force in the UFC, earning him the status of the favorite in this matchup with odds at -260. His consistent performance and ability to dominate in the octagon make him a daunting opponent for any fighter. Meanwhile, Pereira, coming in as the underdog with odds of +220, is looking to turn the tables in his favor this time around.
The fight will be broadcasted live on UFC’s platforms, starting at 7:00 PM PDT. For those interested in witnessing this highly anticipated rematch, it promises to be a thrilling contest between two skilled combatants.
Pereira enters this fight with the acknowledgment that he was not at his best during their first encounter. He has mentioned this in interviews, leading to both empathy and some playful ridicule over his “40% performance” comment. However, Pereira seems more committed than ever, having not competed against any other opponents since his last bout with Ankalaev. This singular focus could play a critical role in his performance in the octagon.
Both fighters have shared the ring with high-caliber opponents. Notably, Pereira is the only one to have seriously challenged Ankalaev since Ankalaev’s five-round bout against Thiago Santos in 2022, which Ankalaev won by Unanimous Decision. This fact bodes well for Pereira, as it demonstrates his capacity to endure a grueling match and still hold his ground. His ability to withstand Ankalaev’s aggressive style, including grappling and heavy body blows, will be put to the ultimate test.
Despite their previous encounter, Pereira has a track record of taking down big names in the sport, having previously defeated fighters who were considered favorites. Both Pereira and Ankalaev have victories over Jan Blachowicz, each by Split Decision, underscoring the close competition between these top-tier fighters.
While Ankalaev’s record and current form make him the logical favorite, the undercurrents in this matchup suggest that Pereira could still pull off an upset. He has consistently faced off against top contenders, earning the respect of fans and analysts alike for his tenacity and willingness to take on challenging fights. This relentless pursuit of excellence has defined his career and could be the deciding factor in this rematch.
That said, there is another perspective to consider. Ankalaev’s strategic approach and ability to adapt in the octagon have been key to his success. His disciplined fighting style and the knack for exploiting his opponents’ weaknesses make him a tough adversary. Many believe that Ankalaev’s previous victory over Pereira has given him insight into Pereira’s tactics, which could give him an upper hand in the upcoming match.
Ultimately, the clash between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira is shaping up to be a highlight of the UFC calendar. The dynamic between the two fighters, combined with the anticipation surrounding their rematch, makes for a compelling narrative. While Ankalaev is favored to continue his winning streak, Pereira’s determination and past successes against high-profile opponents cannot be overlooked.
For those placing bets, it’s worth considering Pereira as a potential winner, despite the odds stacked against him. His unwavering focus and preparation for this rematch suggest that he might just have the edge needed to surprise the betting markets. Our pick? Bet on the Brazilian in this one. Pick: Pereira to win (+220).
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