Businessman sets date for UFC rematch between Ankalaev and Poatan and threatens: 'It will be worse for Alex'

Poatan and Ankalaev face off before the UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction Instagram UFC

businessman of Magomed AnkalayevAli Abdelaziz already has a prediction for the long-awaited rematch for the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg). The agent revealed that the second fight is scheduled for October and believes the scenario will be even more challenging for the Brazilian.

In an interview with the Pound-for-Pound podcast, Abdelaziz highlighted Ankalaev's confidence after his victory over Poatan. He, however, ponders the former champion's quality.

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"I think Alex is a good fighter. He's a real fighter, a lion. But in a way, Ankalaev should have been champion two or three years ago. Alex would never have been champion. I'll tell you one thing: if they fight again—and they will fight again, probably in October—it will be worse for Alex," said Abdelaziz.

Abdelaziz also highlighted Ankalaev's versatility, combining wrestling, grappling, and striking. The agent also believes that the Russian's confidence could further harm Poatan in the second fight.

“Ankalaev has confidence. He understands that Alex was a scary guy who could hit people and knock them out, but he fought a lot of mediocre strikers. None of those guys were top-level strikers. Ankalaev can grapple, he can grapple, and he can stand up… In fact, I think Ankalaev is more of a striker than a grappler. We saw that; he hurt Pereira (Alex Poatán) in the fight. Alex didn't hurt him,” he concluded.

Ankalaev vs. Poatan and the scenario of the first meeting

Magomed Ankalayev derrotou Alex Poatán No. UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

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The rivalry between Magomed Ankalayev and Alex Pereira gained prominence after the UFC 313, held in March 2025. On that occasion, the Russian defeated the Brazilian by unanimous decision and won the light heavyweight belt.

Throughout the fight, Ankalaev maintained a steady pace, neutralizing Pereira's attacks with clinches and precise striking. Although Poatan defended all 12 of Ankalaev's takedown attempts, the Brazilian was unable to impose his usual game.

Magomed's victory ended Alex's reign, having won the light heavyweight belt after moving up from the middleweight division, where he was also champion. The loss was a blow to the Brazilian, who had defended his title three times in a row.