Pereira vs. Ankalaev Nearly Set for UFC 317, but Timing Throws Wrench into Super Fight

The light heavyweight division was nearly set to steal the spotlight at UFC 317 as Magomed Ankalaev revealed he was offered a headlining bout during International Fight Week against reigning champion Alex Pereira. But it appears the timing didn’t work for the Brazilian knockout artist.

“I was offered to fight Alex during International Fight Week. If the man doesn’t want it, let’s move on—I’m ready for everyone,” Ankalaev posted, daring Pereira to accept. Renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani later confirmed the offer, clarifying that the UFC reached out to both parties. “It’s not that Pereira refused the fight; he’s simply unavailable for June,” Helwani reported.

This drama follows a now-deleted post from Pereira’s own social media where he expressed dissatisfaction with how the situation was handled. “I’ve always answered the UFC’s calls,” the post read. “But if they want to play with me, we can do that.” Later, Pereira claimed his account was “hacked,” a move many believe was damage control after public pushback.

It’s believed the UFC, facing a thin main event slate for UFC 317, attempted to fast-track a marquee rematch. Pereira, who had anticipated returning in August, wasn’t ready on such short notice. The promotion’s Plan B may involve Jiri Prochazka, though nothing has been finalized.

For now, fans are left wondering if a Pereira vs. Ankalaev rematch will happen later this year—or if the tension around this failed booking will push them further apart. One thing’s certain: UFC 317’s main event remains up in the air, and time is ticking.