"You have a weak one" - Magomed Ankalaev plans to "expose" Alex Pereira's chin after possibly knocking out Aleksandar Rakic

Magomed Ankalaev has not competed since defeating Johnny Walker via second-round knockout at UFC Fight Night 234 in January. While he appeared to be next in line for a light heavyweight title opportunity, he will instead face Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 308 in October. Meanwhile, Alex Pereira is set to defend his title against Khalil Rountree at UFC 307 earlier in the month.

The No.2-ranked light heavyweight recently called out 'Poatan' for claiming that he turned down a fight, adding that he will expose the light heavyweight champion's chin, tweeting:

"@AlexPereiraUFC can you please tell me which fight I did not accept to fight with you? I’m going to KO Rakic and after I will expose you especially your chin because you have a weak one."

Check out Magomed Ankalaev's tweet to Alex Pereira below:

Pereira previously claimed that he wanted to face Ankalaev next and asked for the matchup, however, the latter turned the bout down. Ankalaev quickly took to X to deny those claims, labeling 'Poatan' as a liar:

"@AlexPereiraUFC you are a liar. You said I turned fire down against you. @danawhite @Mickmaynard2 never offer me a fight against you. I’m gonna make you eat your word after I handle my business."

Check out Magomed Ankalaev's previous tweet below:

It is hard to envision a scenario in which Ankalaev turned down the opportunity to challenge Pereira for a title in the same month he is fighting in a title eliminator bout.

While many have labeled the location as a reason, it should be noted that four of his past five bouts have taken place in the United States. The two are likely on a collision course, however, provided that they get past their upcoming opponents.

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Ali Abdelaziz denies UFC offering Magomed Ankalaev a bout against Alex Pereira

Ali Abdelaziz is one of the most well known managers in mixed martial arts with many fighters signed to his Dominance MMA Management. Magomed Ankalaev is among the fighters on the company's roster and his manager was quick to come to his defense amid claims he turned down a title opportunity, tweeting:

"Just to be clear the UFC never offered a fight to Magomed Ankalaev against Alex Pereira, this is one thing I’m 100% certain about."

Check out Ali Abdelaziz's comments on the light heavyweight title picture below:

While many had complained about Ankalaev being skipped over, he chose not to voice his displeasure. Instead, the No.2-ranked light heavyweight claimed that it would further motivate him to take care of business against Aleksandar Rakic.