The debate over the best pound-for-pound fighter saw Dana White acknowledge Islam Makhachev’s claim to the top spot over Jon Jones earlier this year. However, White hinted this could change again after UFC 313.
Alex Pereira is set to defend his light heavyweight title for the fourth time against Magomed Ankalaev in the UFC 313 main event. Since capturing the belt with a knockout in 2024, Pereira has secured three more knockout victories. A similar result against Ankalaev could propel him to the number one pound-for-pound ranking.
“He’s one of the biggest, if not the biggest, stars right now,” White stated about Pereira on First Take. He emphasized the challenge Ankalaev poses, calling it potentially Pereira’s toughest fight. White mentioned Pereira’s team’s confidence in his takedown defense, suggesting this fight will be a true test.
“This is a tough fight for Alex. If Alex wins in his usual dominant fashion, he might just become the pound-for-pound best in the world,” White concluded.
Currently ranked No. 2 pound-for-pound by MMA Fighting Global Rankings, just behind Makhachev, a dominant win for Pereira could realistically elevate him to the top.
Ankalaev has long been considered a top light heavyweight contender and was expected to face Pereira sooner, but various factors delayed their meeting until now.
This fight marks Pereira’s fifth consecutive main event and his seventh headlining appearance since joining the UFC in 2021.
White praised Pereira’s rapid rise and his exciting fighting style that consistently entertains fans. He also noted Pereira’s willingness to fight anyone, including potential bouts at heavyweight.
“Alex is our guy right now,” White said. “People love his fighting style – he goes for the knockout. He’s always ready to step in, even on short notice, like when he cut short a vacation in Australia to take a fight. He’ll fight anyone, anywhere, anytime.”
“He’s all about violence in the cage, always aiming for the knockout. He doesn’t avoid challenges, moved up in weight, and is even open to heavyweight fights,” White added.
Pereira has expressed interest in a champion versus champion fight against heavyweight champion Jon Jones, an idea Jones has also shown interest in. While White has previously been hesitant about this matchup, he didn’t dismiss it entirely this time.
“He’s willing to fight [Jon Jones]. He’s willing to fight anybody right now,” White reiterated about Pereira.
“Jones will also fight anyone. Don’t be misled by online chatter, Jon Jones wants the fight with Alex Pereira.”
White mentioned aiming for Jones’ return “this summer,” though a heavyweight title unification fight against Tom Aspinall is considered more likely than a fight with Pereira. However, White acknowledged that anything is possible, especially if Pereira decisively defeats Ankalaev and renews his call for a fight with Jones.
