The highly anticipated rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira at UFC 320 is heating up, and not just inside the training room. Ankalaev has publicly accused Pereira of using underhanded tactics, specifically greasing, during their first encounter at UFC 313. This accusation adds fuel to the fire as the two prepare to face off once again for the light heavyweight title. With both fighters trading barbs and the stakes higher than ever, UFC 320 is shaping up to be a must-watch event for MMA fans.
In this article, we’ll delve into Ankalaev’s accusations, examine the context surrounding their first fight, and explore the potential implications for their upcoming rematch. We’ll also touch on Pereira’s response to the allegations and preview what to expect when these two rivals finally step back into the octagon.
Ankalaev Accuses Pereira of Greasing
Magomed Ankalaev has stirred controversy by alleging that Alex Pereira employed greasing tactics during their UFC 313 fight. According to Ankalaev, he felt Pereira was “too slippery” making it difficult for him to grapple effectively. Ankalaev stated:
“To be honest with you, I went through a lot when I was fighting for the title. That training camp was terrible, I couldn’t wrestle for the most part of the training camp, I was battling a lot of injuries and there was a lot of reasons…Also, I told my coach right away during the rounds that I felt like he was greased. He was just too slippery.”
Greasing, the practice of applying a foreign substance to the body to make it more difficult to grip, is strictly prohibited in MMA. If proven, it could lead to serious penalties for Pereira. Ankalaev’s claims add a layer of intrigue and animosity to their already intense rivalry.
While Ankalaev stopped short of directly accusing Pereira, he emphasized that his experience in sparring and training made him sensitive to such tactics. He suggests that Pereira’s alleged slipperiness played a role in his inability to secure takedowns, going 0-12 on takedown attempts during their first fight.
Pereira’s Rebuttal and Counter-Accusations
Alex Pereira has vehemently denied Ankalaev’s accusations of greasing and has even turned the tables by suggesting that Ankalaev himself was slippery. Pereira referenced an encounter at the UFC Performance Institute, stating that Ankalaev avoided him and alluded to a video where he claimed Ankalaev was “hiding.”
Ankalaev refuted Pereira’s version of events, explaining that he was undergoing physical therapy and was unaware of Pereira’s presence. He confronted Pereira about the alleged encounter, to which Pereira reportedly changed the topic. This exchange has further deteriorated the already strained relationship between the two fighters.
The back-and-forth accusations highlight the psychological warfare at play leading up to UFC 320. Both fighters are attempting to gain a mental edge by discrediting their opponent and influencing public perception.
UFC 313: A Contentious Decision
Their first fight at UFC 313 ended with Ankalaev winning a close decision over Pereira to claim the light heavyweight title. However, the fight was not without controversy. Some observers felt that Pereira had done enough to earn the victory, while others believed Ankalaev’s striking and grappling control were sufficient to secure the win.
The judges’ decision was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike, setting the stage for an almost inevitable rematch. The closeness of the fight and the contrasting styles of the two fighters made a second encounter highly desirable to settle the score definitively.
Regardless of who you thought won the first fight, one thing is clear: both Ankalaev and Pereira are elite fighters who are evenly matched. Their rematch promises to be another closely contested battle that could go either way.
UFC 320: What to Expect
UFC 320 is set to take place in Las Vegas and features the highly anticipated rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira as the main event. The card is stacked with exciting matchups, but the spotlight will undoubtedly be on the light heavyweight title fight.
Ankalaev will likely look to utilize his grappling skills to control Pereira and secure takedowns, while Pereira will aim to keep the fight standing and unleash his devastating striking power. The key to victory for both fighters will be to impose their game plan and exploit their opponent’s weaknesses.
Given the animosity between the two, expect a highly charged and intense fight from the opening bell. Both Ankalaev and Pereira have a lot to prove, and they will leave it all in the octagon. It all boils down to who can keep their composure and execute their plan.
Potential Implications for the Rematch
Ankalaev’s accusations of greasing could have several implications for the rematch. First, it puts additional pressure on Pereira to perform cleanly and avoid any appearance of impropriety. Second, it could influence the referee’s scrutiny of Pereira during the fight. Third, it may give Ankalaev a psychological advantage by planting seeds of doubt in Pereira’s mind.
However, the accusations could also backfire on Ankalaev if he fails to perform well in the rematch. If Pereira wins decisively, Ankalaev’s claims may be dismissed as sour grapes. Therefore, it is crucial for Ankalaev to back up his words with a dominant performance.
The greasing controversy adds an extra layer of intrigue to the rematch and raises questions about the integrity of the sport. It remains to be seen how these accusations will ultimately affect the outcome of the fight, but they will undoubtedly be a talking point leading up to and following UFC 320.
Conclusion: A Fight to Remember
The rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira at UFC 320 is shaping up to be a memorable event. Ankalaev’s accusations of greasing have added fuel to an already intense rivalry, and the stakes are higher than ever. Whether Pereira was indeed greasing is up to interpretation, but one thing is clear. These accusations have added an intense element to the fight and the world will be watching.
Both fighters have a lot to prove, and they will leave it all in the octagon. Expect a highly charged and competitive battle that could have lasting implications for the light heavyweight division. Will Ankalaev be able to out-grapple him? Will Pereira be able to get a knockout?
Regardless of the outcome, UFC 320 is sure to be a night of excitement and drama. Make sure to tune in and witness the clash between these two elite fighters.
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