Magomed Ankalaev has broken his silence following his devastating knockout loss to Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 320 last night (Sat., Oct. 4, 2025) inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada (watch
the entire fight here).
The former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
Light Heavyweight titleholder was stopped in just 80 seconds by Pereira, marking his first career knockout loss and ending his short-lived reign at the top of the divisionA day later, Ankalaev took to Instagram to share a message of faith, humility, and perseverance in the wake of the setback.
“If Allah tested me with defeat, then He wants to toughen me,” Ankalaev wrote.
“I bow to His will, but not to difficulties.
To those who stayed — thank you.
To those who turned out, thank you too.
After all, Allah clears the way not only of weakness, but also of unnecessary people.”
Ankalaev (19-2-1) had entered the bout unbeaten in 12 straight fights, with wins over Aleksandar Rakic, Johnny Walker, and Anthony Smith — and besides his upset submission loss to Paul Craig, he had never been stopped inside the Octagon. However, Pereira’s trademark power and relentless pressure proved too much for the Russian standout to overcome.
Despite the crushing defeat, Ankalaev appears determined to rebuild and return stronger than ever — a sentiment consistent with the stoic mindset that’s defined his career.
With the Light Heavyweight title picture wide open once again, don’t be surprised if Ankalaev finds himself right back in contention by next year — or traded to the PFL.
For complete UFC 320 results and play-by-play, click here.
