UFC light heavyweight names two blockbuster fights that need to happen in 2025, including own plan to rematch Alex Pereira's former opponent

Alex Pereira last entered the octagon in October as he defeated Khalil Rountree Jr. via fourth-round TKO at UFC 307 to defend his light heavyweight title for the third time in six months. While 'The War Horse' had won the first two rounds on all three judges' scorecards, he was ultimately stopped, bringing his five-fight winning streak to an end.

Pereira's former opponent, Modestas Bukauskas, who the streak began against back at UFC Fight Night 191 in 2021, recently called for the opportunity to rematch the No. 7-ranked light heavyweight. UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping took to X on Monday with a question for fans, posting:

"What’s 5 things that need to happen in 2025? MMA related."

'The Baltic Gladiator' responded to the post by angling for a rematch while also expressing his interest in a heavyweight title unification bout, saying:

"Jones vs. Aspinall Me vs. khalil rematch"

Check out Michael Bisping's post and Modestas Bukauskas' response below:

Rountree previously defeated Bukauskas via second-round TKO, marking the first time an oblique kick had been used to finish a fight in UFC history. 'The Baltic Gladiator' will likely need to string together a series of wins to receive a rematch as he is outside of the light heavyweight rankings and 'The War Horse's' stock has gone up despite his loss to Pereira.

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Tom Aspinall shares who he hopes to see Alex Pereira face in 2025

Alex Pereira defended his light heavyweight title three times in 2024. Tom Aspinall recently shared one opponent that he believes 'Poatan' must face in 2025.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the No.1-ranked heavyweight shared which bout he is most looking forward to next year, saying:

"The fight that I'm looking forward to the most is Alex Pereira versus Ankalaev. What a clash of styles. Southpaw, wrestler, front foot fighter against a knockout merchant that is Alex Pereira. 2025, that fight has to be made. That could be one of the biggest fights, potentially, in the UFC - definitely in the light heavyweight division and that is something that I am very, very much looking forward to. Big guys, knockout power, throwing down, I want to see it."

Check out Tom Aspinall's comments on a potential matchup between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalev below:

Pereira has shared that he plans to make it difficult for Ankalaev to get a title opportunity. He recently hinted that he will face a different opponent on his return to the octagon. Despite this, the No. 1-ranked light heavyweight appeared next in line for a title opportunity.