The octagon erupted at UFC 320 as Alex Pereira reclaimed his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship in dramatic fashion, knocking out Magomed Ankalaev in the first round. The Brazilian powerhouse delivered a thunderous performance, proving once again why he’s one of the most dangerous strikers in mixed martial arts today.
A Quick but Ruthless Finish
The fight ended just 1 minute and 20 seconds into the first round. Pereira started strong, landing heavy leg kicks before connecting with a devastating right hand that rocked Ankalaev. When the Russian tried to recover by clinching, Pereira followed up with relentless strikes on the ground until the referee stepped in to stop the fight.
Pereira landed 28 of 45 significant strikes, while Ankalaev managed only 4 of 9 attempts, a clear display of dominance.
A Sweet Revenge for Pereira
This victory was especially satisfying for Pereira, who had lost his belt to Ankalaev earlier in March by unanimous decision. After that defeat, many questioned his stamina and preparation. But this time, Pereira came in sharper, faster, and far more focused.
In his post-fight interview, he admitted: “In the first fight, I wasn’t at my best. Tonight, I came back to prove what I can really do.”
The Energy Inside the Arena
The event drew a roaring crowd of 19,081 fans, including NBA stars Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler, and Puka Nacua. The energy was electric, and the moment Pereira dropped Ankalaev sent the audience into a frenzy.
UFC President Dana White praised the champion’s performance, calling it “one of the cleanest and most powerful knockouts we’ve seen this year.”
What’s Next for Alex Pereira?
With the title back around his waist, Pereira’s next challenge is maintaining dominance in the light heavyweight division. Possible contenders include Jiri Prochazka, Jamahal Hill, and a potential trilogy fight with Ankalaev — which fans would love to see.
Pereira has now cemented himself as a two-division champion (Middleweight and Light Heavyweight), making him one of the most successful fighters in recent UFC history.
Co-Main Event Recap
In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili successfully defended his bantamweight title against Cory Sandhagen, winning via unanimous decision. Dvalishvili’s relentless wrestling and pace once again proved too much for his opponent.
Conclusion
Alex Pereira’s stunning first-round knockout at UFC 320 wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. The champion reclaimed his throne and silenced the critics who doubted his power and focus. With this dominant performance, the Brazilian beast looks ready to rule the light heavyweight division once again.
🔥 Do you think Pereira can hold onto his title this time? Comment below with your predictions for his next fight!
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