Joe Rogan has offered a theory regarding Alex Pereira`s lackluster performance in his title fight loss at UFC 313.
Pereira surrendered his light heavyweight championship to Magomed Ankalaev in a unanimous decision after a five-round bout where Ankalaev largely dictated the pace. Pereira`s renowned knockout prowess was notably absent, ending his streak of three successful title defenses.
During a UFC London Fight Companion episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Rogan suggested that he heard Pereira was hampered by both a hand injury and illness.
“They say he fought with a broken hand and norovirus against Ankalaev,” Rogan mentioned casually.
Norovirus is a gastrointestinal infection known for causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Pereira has not publicly addressed any health issues leading up to the March 8th pay-per-view event, and Rogan did not elaborate further. However, Rogan did ponder if Pereira might be competing too frequently, especially after securing three championship victories in 2024.
Rogan added, “He has fought with a broken toe before. When he defeated Jiri Prochazka, he had a messed-up knee. Remember when he stumbled at the fight`s conclusion? That was because his knee gave out. He essentially fought the first match on one leg. Then he underwent surgery, likely meniscus-related, given his quick return.”
Ankalaev entered the title challenge riding a 13-fight unbeaten streak and employed a strategic striking approach to neutralize Pereira, landing the most significant strike of the fight in the second round. He ultimately secured a unanimous decision victory and the UFC light heavyweight title.
Rogan acknowledged Ankalaev`s dominant performance, stating, “Ankalaev and Pereira, in the second round, [Pereira] got rocked and wasn`t quite the same afterward. Much more defensive. I watched a good analysis of Ankalaev`s striking against Pereira; it was very high level, particularly how he negated Pereira`s lead hand by using circular hand movements to control angles.”
Pereira`s next steps are uncertain. The former two-division champion has rapidly become a fan favorite within the UFC. A rematch seems plausible if Pereira desires it, but the light heavyweight division is full of contenders for Ankalaev`s title, and Pereira has hinted at a possible move to the heavyweight division.
Rogan anticipates an immediate rematch between Ankalaev and Pereira. “They are going to run it back, I`m sure,” Rogan commented. “That’s the biggest fight to make in that division, assuming Pereira is healthy. But he`s another fighter who is very active.”
