Magomed Ankalaev’s 14-fight unbeaten streak came to a close on Saturday.
For six months, Dagestan’s Ankalaev reigned as the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, dethroning rival Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 313 by unanimous decision.
Pereira proved a lot of people wrong in their title rematch at UFC 320, with ‘Poatan’ getting his revenge by first-round TKO, rubbing it in Ankalaev’s face with his post-fight celebration.
One of Ankalaev’s coaches suggested a trilogy fight between Pereira and Ankalaev, as they are 1-1, but the former champion isn’t pushing for it just yet in his first post-fight statement.
Magomed Ankalaev releases statement after UFC 320 title loss
Ankalaev is taking his first loss in 15 UFC fights in stride.
The Muslim fighter remains faithful, believing the setback will make him a better fighter.
“If Allah tested me with defeat, it means he wants to strengthen me,” Ankalaev wrote on Instagram.
“I bow to his will, but not to difficulties
“To those who stayed by my side – thank you.
“Thank you also to those who turned away. After all, Allah clears the path not only of weakness, but also of unnecessary people,” Ankalaev added.
Will Magomed Ankalaev fight Alex Pereira again?
Given how different the rematch was from their first fight, a trilogy fight might not be necessary for Pereira and Ankalaev.
UFC superstar Conor McGregor seemingly suggested the light heavyweights fight again, as they’re 1-1 in their series.
When Pereira was asked about a potential trilogy with Ankalaev prior to UFC 320, ‘Poatan’ stated that he personally didn’t see Ankalaev returning to the title picture.
With top contenders Carlos Ulberg and Jiri Prochazka vying for the next title shot, there’s a decent chance Ankalaev gets passed up for the next title shot, meaning he’ll likely have to fight again if he wants a rematch with Pereira.