The prospect of a UFC light heavyweight championship rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex pereira remains uncertain. The situation comes three months after Ankalaev’s Decision Win over pereira at UFC, where the Dagestani fighter ended Pereira’s reign after three title defenses.

Given Pereira’s dominant run in the division,many expected an immediate rematch. Ankalaev also seemed open to the idea, agreeing to a rematch against Pereira soon after their first encounter.

Though,with no date set,Ankalaev is expressing his frustration.

Magomed Ankalaev Ready to “Move On,” Believes Alex Pereira Won’t Return

Initially, Ankalaev and pereira appeared to agree on a summer timeline for their second fight. However, Pereira’s rejection of a title shot at UFC 317 on June 28 introduced uncertainty and drew criticism from Ankalaev.

Ankalaev has now claimed on X that Pereira has no plans to return to the Octagon in July or August either.

Consequently, the light heavyweight champion is looking at other options, convinced that “Poatan” is avoiding a comeback.

“Alex [is] done, [he’s] never coming back,” Ankalaev wrote. “Let’s move on; June, July, August I said yes.”

“Alex [is] done, [he’s] never coming back,” Ankalaev wrote.”Let’s move on; June, July, august I said yes.”

Alex Pereira’s “Hacker” Previously Mentioned UFC Retirement

Rumors of Pereira’s potential retirement surfaced after a social media post hinted at disagreements with the UFC.

Pereira attributed the post, which criticized the promotion and threatened to leave the sport, to a hacker.

Daniel Cormier and others rejected Pereira’s hacked claim, especially after Jiri Prochazka was offered a shot at UFC 317 due to Pereira’s potential unavailability.

Reports that Pereira fought through an injury at UFC 313 could explain his extended period of inactivity. He reportedly dealt with several physical issues during his 3-0 run in 2024.