UFC 320 Announced: Ankalaev vs Pereira 2—The Ultimate Grudge Match

By Ali Hammad August 08, 2025 09:59

UFC 320: Ankalaev vs Pereira 2 is set to be one of the most anticipated mixed martial arts events of 2025, headlining with a high-stakes rematch between reigning Light Heavyweight Champion Magomed Ankalaev and former champion Alex Pereira. Scheduled for October 4, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this showdown is billed as the ultimate grudge match, rekindling one of the UFC's fiercest rivalries.

The first encounter between Ankalaev and Pereira took place at UFC 313, where Ankalaev claimed the Light Heavyweight title via unanimous decision over Pereira. Since then, both fighters have evolved, with Pereira bringing his unique blend of knockout power and striking precision, while Ankalaev remains a formidable force with his wrestling and grappling prowess. This rematch not only offers a chance for Pereira to reclaim the title but also promises an electrifying clash between two elite mixed martial artists with contrasting styles.

Ankalaev, known for his methodical and technical approach, has compiled an impressive professional record, leveraging his disciplined striking and dominant takedown ability. Pereira, on the other hand, comes from a decorated kickboxing background holding titles in Glory Kickboxing at Middleweight and Light Heavyweight and is also a former UFC Middleweight Champion, making him one of the most dangerous strikers in UFC history.

The bout is more than just a title fight; it carries a deeply personal edge, as both fighters have exchanged heated words leading up to their rematch. Pereira has been vocal about his confidence in overcoming Ankalaev this time, with supporters like Caio Borralho betting on his striking expertise to tip the balance in his favor. Fighters often reveal game plan nuances ahead of major clashes, and Pereira has reportedly been cautious about revealing too much of his grappling skills, adding an element of unpredictability to the bout.

Backing up this main event is a championship doubleheader that includes a UFC Bantamweight title bout between current champion Merab Dvalishvili and former interim champion Cory Sandhagen. Additionally, Jiří Procházka, the inaugural Rizin Light Heavyweight Champion and former UFC titleholder, will fight Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 320 and is set to serve as a backup for the main event, underscoring the promotion's preparedness for any eventuality.

UFC 320 marks a return to Las Vegas’ iconic T-Mobile Arena, a venue known for delivering historic UFC moments. The preliminaries will be broadcast across multiple ESPN platforms, with the main card available on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View, ensuring fans worldwide have front-row access to this championship spectacle.

In summary, UFC 320 pits Magomed Ankalaev against Alex Pereira in a highly anticipated Light Heavyweight Championship rematch that combines skill, rivalry, and championship stakes. Both fighters bring their best attribute Ankalaev’s grappling and control versus Pereira’s knockout striking to the Octagon in what is shaping up to be the ultimate grudge match of 2025. With a stacked fight card and significant championship implications, UFC 320 promises to be a milestone event for fans and fighters alike.