Alex Pereira's striking could play into Magomed Ankalaev's strengths, says former UFC champion in eye-opening prediction: "Could be a huge problem"

Many expect Alex Pereira to have his hands full when he defends his UFC light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev. Among those who believe this to be the case is ex-UFC light heavywyeight champion Jamahal Hill, who recently spoke to MMA reporter Kevin Iole in a YouTube interview.

Hill believes that Pereira's striking style has openings that Ankalaev could capitalize on once they lock horns. While he doesn't outright predict a loss for Pereira, he believes the matchup to be an incredibly challenging one for the reigning light heavyweight king.

"I think it's an interesting challenge for Alex because of the, yeah the wrestling, one, but also Magomed is a very sharp counterpuncher. He's a very sharp counter-striker. I believe Alex's striking style could actually play a little bit in the favor of Ankalaev and the way that he strikes in a certain way and the things that he looks to do in a fight, as well as him having to worry about that takedown. So, I see ways where Ankalaev could be a huge problem for Alex, but I also see ways that Alex could be a huge problem for Ankalaev."

Check out Jamahal Hill's assessment of Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev (5:30):

While Ankalaev is expected to be Pereira's next title challenger in a division that the Brazilian knockout artist has dominated, the UFC has not yet announced an official date for Pereira's return. Furthermore, they haven't officially confirmed Ankalaev as the next title challenger for the light heavyweight belt.

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Alex Pereira has been dismissive of Magomed Ankalaev

Magomed Ankalaev's 2024 campaign was defined more by trash talk aimed at Alex Pereira than his own octagon exploits. This seemed to irk 'Poatan,' who subsequently opted to delay Ankalaev's awaited title shot. In fact, not long ago, he took to X/Twitter to dismiss him as the next title challenger.

"It won't be Ankalaev!"

The pair's feud has quickly taken on a life of its own, with Ankalaev appearing to try and drum up interest in the bout to secure a title fight. However, with Pereira's disinterest, there has been a matching delay in the UFC's willingness to officially declare him as the next title challenger at light heavyweight.