The UFC 320 main event is set to deliver fireworks as Magomed Ankalaev defends his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship against Alex Pereira in a highly anticipated rematch. Fans around the world are buzzing about how this fight will unfold, and UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski has now shared his detailed breakdown and prediction for the bout.

The two fighters already met earlier this year at UFC 313, where Ankalaev scored a unanimous decision victory over Pereira. Despite Pereira’s strong takedown defense, it was the Dagestani champion’s ability to outstrike the former kickboxing star that shocked many fans.

Now, with the rematch only days away, Volkanovski’s analysis has added even more intrigue to an already fascinating showdown.

The Story So Far: Pereira vs. Ankalaev I

At UFC 313, Alex Pereira entered the octagon as the reigning light heavyweight champion, looking to extend his incredible MMA rise after conquering the middleweight division. Many expected his superior striking pedigree to overwhelm Ankalaev, who is known primarily for his wrestling, control, and patient fighting style.

However, the fight played out much differently than expected. Pereira stuffed all 12 of Ankalaev’s takedown attempts throughout the five-round contest. But what stunned fans and analysts alike was how Ankalaev outstruck Pereira on the feet, winning three rounds to two in the striking exchanges.

This surprising outcome gave Ankalaev the unanimous decision victory and the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. For Pereira, it was a humbling defeat, but also a reminder that even elite strikers must adapt quickly in MMA when faced with versatile opponents.

UFC 320: The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher

The rematch at UFC 320 is more than just a title defense—it’s a battle of pride, legacy, and adjustments.

Magomed Ankalaev: With his methodical approach, sharp counterstriking, and durability, Ankalaev is aiming to prove that his win over Pereira was no fluke. A second victory over the former two-division kickboxing world champion would solidify his reign at light heavyweight and silence doubters.

Alex Pereira: Known as “Poatan,” Pereira is determined to reclaim his belt. He has been working on adjustments to avoid being caught off guard again, and fans are eager to see whether his legendary power and improved tactical approach can overcome Ankalaev’s technical game.

This is not just a fight—it’s a clash of styles and wills, and the winner could define the future of the division.

Alexander Volkanovski’s Prediction: Why He Leans Ankalaev

When analyzing the rematch, Alexander Volkanovski gave the edge to Magomed Ankalaev, citing his versatility and fight IQ.

“Pereira is so good,” Volkanovski acknowledged on his YouTube channel. “Can he make the adjustments? Yes. But Ankalaev showed me just then, watching a bit of the tape, that he can mix it up, change his looks, even change his stances. He’s obviously predominantly a southpaw, but changes his stances, that’s what suits him defensively.”

According to Volkanovski, Ankalaev’s ability to switch stances, use deceptive feints, and maintain composure under pressure gives him an advantage over Pereira. While Pereira has unmatched knockout power, Volkanovski suggests that Ankalaev’s adaptability may neutralize that weapon once again.

Breaking Down the Styles

Alex Pereira: The Powerhouse Striker

Former two-division Glory Kickboxing Champion

Known for his devastating left hook and precise counterstriking

Relies heavily on forward pressure and cutting off the cage

Excellent takedown defense, as seen in the first fight

Pereira’s biggest key to victory is finding a way to land clean against Ankalaev. In their first fight, his timing seemed off, perhaps due to Ankalaev’s stance switches and defensive adjustments. To win this time, Pereira must impose his rhythm earlier and not allow Ankalaev to dictate the pace.

Magomed Ankalaev: The Patient Technician

Undefeated in his last 12 UFC fights

Strong background in Sambo and wrestling, but striking has evolved massively

Excellent cage control, distance management, and defensive awareness

Adaptable with stance switches and strategic game planning

Ankalaev is often criticized for being too cautious, but against Pereira, that caution was his strength. By carefully managing distance and using subtle striking patterns, he was able to blunt Pereira’s offense while landing enough to win rounds. His challenge in the rematch is to repeat that success against an opponent who now knows what to expect.

Volkanovski on Pereira’s Chances

While Volkanovski leaned toward Ankalaev, he did not dismiss Pereira’s chances of regaining the title.

“He has the knockout power to change the fight at any second,” Volkanovski said. “Even if he loses four rounds, he only needs one opening. That’s the danger of fighting Pereira—he doesn’t have to be perfect for 25 minutes. He just has to be perfect for one punch.”

Indeed, Pereira’s reputation as one of the deadliest strikers in MMA history means that he is always one strike away from victory. His left hook has ended champions before, and if Ankalaev makes even a small mistake, the fight could end instantly.

Adjustments Pereira Needs to Make

If Pereira wants to reclaim the title at UFC 320, he must:

Improve Volume Output – In the first fight, Ankalaev’s steady pace allowed him to edge rounds. Pereira needs to throw more strikes and control the exchanges.

Cut the Cage More Effectively – Pereira’s pressure is lethal, but Ankalaev escaped too easily last time. Better cage-cutting will trap Ankalaev in dangerous positions.

Mix Strikes to the Body and Legs – Ankalaev defended well against head shots. Targeting the body and legs could break down his defense over five rounds.

Stay Patient but Assertive – Overcommitting against Ankalaev risks being countered. Pereira must find the balance between aggression and control.

Ankalaev’s Path to Victory

For Ankalaev, the game plan likely looks similar to the first fight:

Neutralize Pereira’s Power – By switching stances, using range, and staying unpredictable, Ankalaev can make it hard for Pereira to set his feet.

Blend Striking with Takedown Threats – Even if Pereira stuffs takedowns, the attempts will keep him guessing and open striking opportunities.

Stay Disciplined for 25 Minutes – Pereira’s power is always a threat. Ankalaev must remain focused from the opening bell to the final horn.

Volkanovski’s Key Takeaway

Ultimately, Volkanovski predicts another Ankalaev win, but he warns fans not to underestimate Pereira’s ability to adjust.

“I lean Ankalaev because he’s got more tools, but you can never count out a guy like Pereira. That left hook changes history if it lands,” Volkanovski concluded.

What’s at Stake Beyond UFC 320

The outcome of this rematch carries huge implications:

If Ankalaev wins, he cements his position as the dominant light heavyweight champion and potentially sets up future super fights with contenders like Jamahal Hill or Jiri Prochazka.

If Pereira wins, he becomes a two-time light heavyweight champion and adds to his already historic legacy of conquering divisions in both kickboxing and MMA.

Either way, the light heavyweight division will look very different after UFC 320.

A Clash of Champions

The UFC 320 main event between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira is one of the most intriguing matchups of the year. With Ankalaev’s technical precision and Pereira’s fight-ending power, this rematch has all the ingredients of a classic.

And with Alexander Volkanovski’s detailed prediction giving fans even more insight, the anticipation is higher than ever. Will Ankalaev once again outclass the former kickboxing great, or will Pereira find redemption with a knockout that echoes around the MMA world?

One thing is certain: the world will be watching, and history will be made inside the octagon.