Ankakalv and Pereira Set for Light Heavyweight Rematch Showdown

Championships on the Line in High-Stakes Bout

The Octagon is set to ignite as reigning light heavyweight champion **Magomed Ankalaev** prepares to defend his title against a determined **Alex Pereira**. This highly anticipated rematch promises fireworks as both fighters aim to solidify their dominance.

Ankakalv Aims to Cement Legacy

Magomed Ankalaev, with a formidable 20-1-1 (1 NC) record, looks to deliver a statement performance and begin an unforgettable championship reign. Since claiming the 205-pound strap, the Russian powerhouse has overcome top contenders including **Aleksandar Rakić**, **Johnny Walker**, and **Anthony Smith**. He enters this contest with a clear mission: to decisively defeat **Pereira** and prove his supremacy.

Pereira Seeks Redemption and Championship Gold

Brazilian striking sensation **Alex Pereira** (12-3) returns to the cage driven by a quest for redemption. Since his Octagon debut in 2021, the former two-division champion has become a must-see attraction, boasting a resume filled with knockout victories over former champions like **Israel Adesanya**, **Jiří Procházka**, and **Jamahal Hill**. He aims to overcome **Ankakalv** and reclaim the light heavyweight crown he believes is rightfully his.

Dvalishvili Defends Bantamweight Title Against Sandhagen

In another marquee matchup, bantamweight king **Merab Dvalishvili** (20-4) aims for his third title defense in 2025. Currently riding an impressive 12-fight win streak and ranked as the No. 3 pound-for-pound fighter, **Dvalishvili** has vanquished elite talent such as **Sean O’Malley** (twice), **Umar Nurmagomedov**, and **Henry Cejudo**. He now sets his sights on **Cory Sandhagen**, looking to add another legendary name to his legacy and further solidify his claim as one of the greatest.

Sandhagen Eyes Championship Dream

The formidable **Cory Sandhagen** (18-5) stands ready for what could be the biggest fight of his career. The Colorado native has climbed the bantamweight ranks with victories over notable opponents including **Deiveson Figueiredo**, **Rob Font**, and **Marlon Vera**. **Sandhagen** is determined to defeat **Dvalishvili** and achieve his lifelong ambition of becoming a UFC champion.

Exciting Undercard Features Top Talent

The event is further bolstered by a stacked undercard featuring several compelling bouts:

• A high-stakes light heavyweight contest pits No. 2 ranked challenger **Jiří Procházka** (31-5-1) against the powerful No. 4 ranked **Khalil Rountree Jr.** (15-6).
• No. 14 ranked middleweight **Abus Magomedov** (28-6-1) faces Dana White’s Contender Series standout **Joe Pyfer** (14-3).
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee **Ateba Gautier** (8-1) makes a quick return to face Ozzy Diaz (10-3).
• Middleweight action is set as Dana White’s Contender Series contract winners Edmen Shahbazyan (15-5) and Andre Muniz (24-7) go head-to-head.
• Flyweight contenders **Veronica Hardy** (9-5-1) and The Ultimate Fighter season 30 finalist Brogan Walker (8-4) clash.
• Top bantamweight talent **Macy Chiasson** (31-5-1), ranked No. 5, takes on the No. 9 ranked Yana Santos (16-8 1NC) in a bout that promises fireworks.

For the most up-to-date information on bout announcements and event details, fans can visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are subject to change.