Alex Pereira’s big win at UFC 307 has everyone talking about what’s next for the light heavyweight champion. On the latest episode of Ringside Report MMA, hosts Dave Simon, Fred Garcia, and AJ D’Alesio shared their thoughts on potential matchups for Pereira and their predictions for the upcoming UFC Fight Night featuring Brandon Royval and Tetsuro Taira. The discussions were lively and insightful, offering fans a deeper look into the possible future of these fighters. Let’s dive into their conversations and see what the future might hold for these UFC stars.
Alex Pereira’s Dominant Victory and Future Opponents
Alex Pereira showcased his incredible skills at UFC 307, defeating Khalil Rountree Jr. via TKO in the fourth round to retain the UFC light heavyweight title. His performance impressed the hosts, with AJ D’Alesio stating, “That was the most devastating fight I’ve seen of Pereira. He was just an executioner. The guy was so precise. The guy is probably one of the best fighters I’ve ever seen. And I’m talking at the same ranks of Jon Jones here.”
Dave Simon pointed out an interesting fact about the fight’s scoring. He said, “Would you believe that Alex Pereira in that fourth round was actually losing the fight? On the judges’ scorecards, all three judges had given Khalil Rountree the first two rounds.” This revelation surprised the hosts, who felt Pereira had been dominant throughout.
Fred Garcia shared his perspective on the judges’ scoring, mentioning, “I gave the first two to Pereira, but the first round was pretty tight. In the second round, I think is the one where Rountree had a nice kick and also a nice punch at some point that fazed Pereira.” He acknowledged that while Rountree had his moments, Pereira showcased superior skill and endurance.
The discussion then shifted to who Pereira might face next. Some fans are eager to see a super fight between Pereira and Jon Jones. Fred suggested, “I wouldn’t be surprised he would want that fight. Now, maybe it’s not in the plans of the UFC, but Jon Jones for him, man, he wants… I would think he wants some good paydays.”
However, Dave disagreed, believing that a fight with Jon Jones is unlikely due to other commitments. He explained, “I don’t think it’s going to happen. I think they’re going to go with Jones and Aspinall for the undisputed heavyweight title. If Jones decides to fight again after this, I think that’s probably where they go.”
Instead, Dave suggested that Pereira’s next opponent could be the winner of the upcoming fight between Magomed Ankalaev and Aleksandar Rakic. He said, “If Ankalaev does beat Rakic at UFC 308 in a couple of weeks, then Ankalaev would be the logical next step for Pereira. Problem with that is he could beat Pereira and then screw up a lot of super fights with Jon Jones or whoever.”
Fred agreed that Ankalaev would be a strong contender. He noted, “Ankalaev has a different set of skills that’s going to bring challenges to Pereira. If Ankalaev wants to put all his chances on his side, don’t strike too much with Pereira. Pereira has shown that he’s a killer on the striking side.”
The hosts also discussed the possibility of Jan Blachowicz getting a rematch with Pereira. Dave mentioned, “I think you go with Jan Blachowicz up against Pereira because he fought Pereira back in July of 2023. It was a three-rounder and he lost a split decision. It was a close fight. And I think you could do it again for the belt.”
AJ emphasized the importance of seizing big fights while the opportunity exists, especially considering fighters’ limited time at the top. He expressed, “You’ve got to get these guys while they still have the fight in them. And Jon Jones’s time is ticking. The way to beat Pereira… we’ve never really seen Pereira’s skill on the ground.” He suggested that a fight with Jon Jones could test Pereira’s grappling abilities.
Julianna Peña’s Triumph and Potential Rematches
At UFC 307, Julianna Peña defeated Raquel Pennington via split decision to reclaim the UFC bantamweight title. The hosts discussed who she might face next and had differing opinions.
Dave Simon pointed out that Peña called out Amanda Nunes, hoping for a trilogy fight. He said, “She didn’t call out Kayla Harrison who had a win on the card. She called out Amanda Nunes, wanted her to come out of retirement and fight her again. And now Amanda is maybe talking about doing that.”
Dave favoured the trilogy, stating, “I’d go with the trilogy, man. I think it’s unfinished business there. One-one. I would do it one more time if you could get Amanda Nunes out of retirement. I say you do it. She’s a star. She can sell pay-per-views.”
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On the other hand, AJ D’Alesio preferred to see Kayla Harrison get the title shot. He argued, “Nunes is not coming on, man. If I want to see something, I want to see Kayla because Kayla is, to me, a true champion. This girl is destined to be the champion. Amanda Nunes is not going to come back. She did her thing. She knows she could smash Peña.”
Fred Garcia was confident that Peña would be at a disadvantage regardless of who she faced. He stated, “Whether it’s Kayla or Amanda, they’re both going to beat Julianna.” He seemed to believe that Peña’s reign as champion might be short-lived if she faced either of these formidable opponents.
The hosts examined Peña’s previous fights with Nunes. AJ reminded everyone, “Let’s not forget it was a ten-eight first round for Amanda Nunes against Peña. Let’s not forget that somebody was on COVID having, like, all kinds of, like, issues. She was, like, broken. And she almost… she beat her ten-eight in the first round.”
This led to a debate about Peña’s chances in a potential rematch with a fully healthy Nunes or against Kayla Harrison, who has been dominating her opponents. The hosts agreed that any of these matchups would be exciting for fans.
Brandon Royval vs Tetsuro Taira: Predictions for UFC Fight Night
Looking ahead to the upcoming UFC Fight Night, the hosts discussed the main event featuring Brandon Royval and Tetsuro Taira. Taira, a 24-year-old undefeated fighter from Okinawa, Japan, has made significant strides in the flyweight division.
Dave Simon highlighted Taira’s potential impact on the UFC. He said, “This is a big fight for him at flyweight. Title shot could be on the line. Tetsuro Taira is the great Japanese hope right now in the UFC.” He emphasized the significance of Taira’s rise, especially since Japanese fighters have been less prominent in the UFC in recent years.
AJ D’Alesio was particularly enthusiastic about Taira’s abilities. He predicted, “Japan has a chance right here, you know, and I think this kid might be able to do it.” He was impressed with Taira’s well-rounded skills, noting, “When you look at his stats, I was looking at stats and looking at his fights. I was like, Holy shit, man, this kid is really good. 24 years old. He has like 65% significant strikeouts. I mean, like, and this kid can grapple.”
The hosts discussed the historical significance of a potential Japanese UFC champion. Dave asked, “Has there ever been a Japanese UFC champion?” They acknowledged that while Japan has produced many talented fighters, none have captured a UFC title. This adds extra excitement to Taira’s upcoming fight, as he could make history for his country.
Fred Garcia shared his thoughts on the matchup, recognizing Royval’s skills. He commented, “Brandon Royval is the number one ranked UFC flyweight contender.” The fight presents a significant challenge for Taira, but also a massive opportunity.
Dave expressed the importance of this fight for Taira’s career trajectory. He said, “If he could beat Brandon Royval, he’s up next for a title shot.” A victory would catapult Taira into the spotlight and potentially set up a championship bout.
Conclusion
The fallout from UFC 307 has set the stage for some thrilling potential matchups. Alex Pereira’s dominant performance leaves fans and analysts eager to see who he’ll face next. The possibilities are exciting, whether it’s a top contender like Magomed Ankalaev, a rematch with Jan Blachowicz, or an unlikely super fight with Jon Jones.
Julianna Peña’s victory opens up discussions about her next opponent. While some, like Dave, advocate for a trilogy fight with Amanda Nunes, others, like AJ, are eager to see Kayla Harrison challenge for the title. Each option brings intrigue and potential for memorable bouts.
Meanwhile, the upcoming fight between Brandon Royval and Tetsuro Taira carries significant weight. Taira has the chance to cement his place as a top contender and potentially become Japan’s first UFC champion. His skill set and undefeated record make this fight one to watch.
Key Takeaways:
- Alex Pereira’s Next Opponent: Potential matchups include Magomed Ankalaev, Jan Blachowicz, or even an unlikely super fight with Jon Jones. Pereira’s striking prowess makes any future fight compelling.
- Julianna Peña’s Title Defence: The possibility of Amanda Nunes coming out of retirement for a trilogy fight adds excitement. Alternatively, a bout with Kayla Harrison offers a fresh and challenging matchup.
- Tetsuro Taira’s Rise: Taira’s upcoming fight against Brandon Royval could be a historic moment for Japanese MMA. A victory would position him for a title shot and elevate his status in the UFC.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these stories unfold. The UFC continues to deliver high-stakes fights and emerging talents, keeping the world of MMA dynamic and engaging.
