“I think I could’ve done a better job in the fight, but something just wasn’t working out,” said the newly crowned 205lbs champ, Magomed Ankalaev. The emotions were thick in the air, both inside the Octagon and across the arena. The ‘Chama’ roar? Silenced, for now. But then, UFC boss Dana White, master of cryptic one-word answers, hit us with a classic “probably” when asked about a rematch during the post-fight presser. And we all know what that usually means, don’t we?
The Dagestani, fresh off his UFC 313 victory, wasted no time making his case. His first tweet? A self-congratulatory nod. “I can outstrike the best strikers.” But then came the not-so-subtle jab at the former champ, Alex Pereira. “First 3 rounds, I made up my mind I will just strike with him, it was so much fun and it was not easy when all your opponent does is running. My pressure today was my best weapon and I’m very happy.”
And just when you thought that was the final word, Magomed Ankalaev, in what can only be described as a swift PR cleanup, followed up with a second tweet. And this time with a noticeably different tone, “@AlexPereiraUFC, it was an honor sharing the cage with you, you are a great champion and your team, your coaches have a lot of class. Let’s run it back anytime you want.”
@AlexPereiraUFC it was an honor sharing the cage with you, you are a great Champion and your team, your coaches have a lot of class. Let’s run it back anytime you want.
— Magomed Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) March 9, 2025
A direct message or more like a direct challenge? Either way, the Brazilian former champion is not exactly the type to let accusations of “running” slide. What do you think? Was it a gracious acceptance or a reluctant obligation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
The post Magomed Ankalaev Sends Direct Message to Alex Pereira After Adding Salt to Rival’s UFC 313 Wounds appeared first on EssentiallySports.
