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1h ago

Ankalaev Denies 'Hiding' Claim as Odds Favor Him Before Pereira Rematch at UFC 320

After seven months off, Alex Pereira says he feels fully healthy following a bout he estimates was at “about 40%,” with some peers predicting a rebound performance.

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Overview

  • Magomed Ankalaev defends his light heavyweight title against former champion Alex Pereira on Oct. 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
  • Ankalaev rejected Pereira’s claim that he “hid” during a run-in at the UFC Performance Institute, saying he confronted Pereira and adding that all social posts go out with his consent via manager Ali Abdelaziz.
  • Pereira maintains he was compromised for their March bout, says a longer, travel-free camp has left him rested, and insists fans will see a sharper version in the rematch.
  • Betting markets list Ankalaev as the favorite, with ESPN’s analysis pricing him around -260 and projecting a fight resembling their first meeting.
  • Predictions are split, as notable fighters including Dricus du Plessis and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson publicly back Pereira to reclaim the belt.