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Magomed Ankalaev's fiery callout to Alex Pereira during the UFC 308 post-fight press conference has resulted in a whirlwind of fan backlash.
Earlier today at the pay-per-view, the No.1-ranked light heavyweight claimed a unanimous decision win against Aleksandar Rakic. Ankalaev has long been clamoring for a title shot and believes the UFC is shielding the reigning champion from him.
During the press conference, the 32-year-old unleashed a fiery call out to 'Poatan' in English, per a reporter's request, saying:
"Alex, stop running away from me."
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Check out Magomed Ankalaev's comments below:
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The callout, however, seems to have failed to connect with fight fans who rallied to X to slam the fighter.
@NVtheEngineer wrote:
"Based on his performance today, Alex would mop him with one arm tied behind his back."
@COFFTEA_US chimed in:
"The most cringe thing, this guy decisions a guy who is 2-3 in his last five and performed trashily."
Check out a few more responses below:
Despite the fan sentiment surrounding the potential fight, Ankalaev is not deterred by Pereira's kickboxing prowess or his nuclear-left hook. The 205-pound contender is convinced the reigning champion is just another fighter who packs a powerful punch.
Talking to the media, Ankalaev boldly proclaimed that 'Poatan's' striking was less nuanced than people were making it out to be:
"Everybody can read his striking. He is just a regular, standard fighter who moves forward and drops people with his hook."
Check out Magomed Ankalaev's comments below:
Even if he gets to fight for the title next, the Dagestani might have to wait a few months to finally square up with 'Poatan'. Pereira is considering taking some time off after a busy 2024 schedule, already fighting thrice this year.
Many in the MMA community believe that Ankalaev's being a proficient grappler might be one of the toughest fights for the champion.
