UFC Champ Pereira's Striking is Overrated: Ankalaev

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One of the Biggest UFC Stars

UFC Light Heavyweight champion and former Middleweight champion Alex Pereira (Brazil) is becoming one of the biggest stars of the promotion. He successfully defended his heavyweight title against former champions Jamahal Hill (United States) and Jiří Procházka (Czech Republic). Now, the speculation is rife about who the Brazilian will fight next.

'I'm Next in Line to Fight Pereira'

Magomed Ankalaev (Russia), the second-ranked fighter in the Light Heavyweight division, seeks a title fight with Pereira. Ankalaev has been undefeated in his 12 fights inside the Octagon.

Ankalaev on Pereira's Striking

Pereira is a world-renowned kickboxer and perhaps one of the best strikers in the UFC currently. However, Ankalaev considers the Brazilian's striking game overrated. "He definitely has a strong punch, but overall his stand-up is overrated," the Russian said in an interview with MMA Junkie.

'He has to Face Me First...'

Amid speculations that Pereira might move to the Heavyweight division, Ankalaev said the Brazilian has to face him first. "If you want to be the champion of the division I think he definitely has to face me first. Then maybe he can consider other moves," he said.