In the cutthroat world of mixed martial arts, where ambition often overshadows camaraderie, a unique dilemma faces former title challenger Dominick Reyes. As the UFC Light Heavyweight division prepares for a highly anticipated rematch between champion Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira at UFC 320, Reyes finds himself on the cusp of another title shot, but with a surprising preference for his next opponent – a preference deeply rooted in an unexpected friendship.
A Friendship Forged in Combat, a Championship Dilemma
Dominick “The Devastator” Reyes, a man who has twice stood under the bright lights of a UFC title fight, is candid about his ideal scenario. Speaking recently, Reyes revealed that if given the choice between facing Ankalaev or Pereira for the Light Heavyweight strap, he`d opt for Ankalaev. This isn`t a strategic play based on fighting styles or perceived weaknesses; it`s a matter of personal connection.
Reyes shared that he and Alex Pereira, the formidable “Poatan” known for his devastating striking, are friends. They trained extensively together in 2022, forging a bond that now complicates Reyes`s professional ambitions. “I`d rather not fight my people,” Reyes admitted, highlighting the delicate balance between personal ties and the ultimate goal in professional sports.
“Well, the only reason I’d want to fight Ankalaev is because I’m friends with Pereira, right? I did a full camp with him. He’s actually my friend. So it’s like, I’d rather not fight my people. I’d rather fight Ankalaev.”
This sentiment, while entirely understandable, presents a fascinating paradox. To fight Ankalaev for the title means Pereira would have to lose the belt at UFC 320. Reyes openly acknowledged this “double-edged sword,” a rare glimpse into the human element behind the often-brutal sport. It`s a testament to the respect and relationships that can form even among competitors vying for the same pinnacle.
From the Brink: The Resurgence of “The Devastator”
Reyes`s current position as a potential title contender is, in itself, a remarkable narrative of resilience. After a controversial decision loss to Jon Jones in 2020 – a fight many believed Reyes won – his career took a dramatic downturn. He suffered three consecutive knockout losses, a period that would signal the end for many fighters. Whispers of his imminent release from the UFC grew louder, and the path back seemed insurmountable.
Yet, like a phoenix from the ashes, Reyes engineered an extraordinary turnaround. He embarked on an impressive comeback tour, securing three straight knockout victories against Dustin Jacoby, Anthony Smith, and Nikita Krylov. Each win was a powerful statement, silencing critics and reminding the division of the dangerous “Devastator” of old. This resurgence has not only brought him back into the top contender conversation but has infused his journey with a compelling underdog appeal.
The Road Ahead: Carlos Ulberg and UFC Perth
Before Reyes can even consider his preferred title opponent, a significant hurdle stands in his way: the highly-ranked Carlos Ulberg. This weekend at UFC Perth, Reyes will headline a five-round main event against Ulberg, a fighter in his own right who is on an eight-fight win streak. Ulberg recently bested former champion Jan Blachowicz – ironically, one of the fighters who handed Reyes a knockout loss.
This matchup is more than just another fight; it`s a de facto title eliminator. A win for Reyes would solidify his claim for a third shot at UFC gold, marking one of the most incredible comeback stories in recent memory. A loss, however, could send him back to square one, or worse, jeopardize his standing in the promotion he fought so hard to remain a part of.
The stakes are astronomically high. Reyes isn`t just fighting for a belt; he`s fighting for validation, for legacy, and for the chance to complete a narrative arc that seemed impossible just a few years ago. And when the dust settles, whether it`s Ankalaev or Pereira holding the strap, Dominick Reyes knows he`ll face a champion – perhaps even one he considers a friend – in his relentless pursuit of the ultimate prize.
