“He Scared”- Alex Pereira’s $200K Bet Takes a Turn as Fans Left in Disbelief Over Magomed Ankalaev Response

“Since you’re so confident you’ll win, $200,000 to the winner’s charity of choice,” said Alex Pereira, laying down a bold challenge to Magomed Ankalaev ahead of UFC 313. The reigning champion proposed that the loser should donate a hefty six-figure sum to a charity chosen by the victor. Confident in his ability to defeat Ankalaev, ‘Poatan’ made it clear he’s willing to put his money where his mouth is. However, with Ankalaev refusing the wager, fans are now questioning the Dagestani’s confidence.

Responding to ‘Poatan’s challenge, the Dagestani refused to take part in it, “As a Muslim you know betting is forbidden in Islam,” wrote Ankalaev on his X handle. He further added, “And also as a Muslim every year I have to give 2.5% of my wealth to charity this is one of the five pillars of Islam. Many kids around the world are in need and we can do things after the fight but we don’t have to publicize it. Your manager and my manager have a good relationship and we can let them handle that. See you soon. Ramadan Mubarak”

Promising to donate a massive $200,000 to charity if he loses, Alex Pereira has cemented his confidence in victory. However, the situation is not as easy for Ankalaev. Why? Well, that’s because unlike Pereira, who has a higher pay, Ankalaev’s reported base salary is around $200,000 and if he loses the fight then he might lose a large chunk of the paycheck.

Magomed Ankalaev is already taking a huge risk by taking the fight in Ramadan and he seems not keen on taking more risks. And, as he mentioned, his religion prohibits betting. But he is open to donating to a good cause. However, the MMA community might have some other analogy to this response by the Dagestani.

Fans believe Magomed Ankalaev’s confidence is shaken after Alex Pereira’s bet

Starting off, a social media user asserted that the Dagetsani might be afraid of Alex Pereira after the challenge, “damn he scared, Alex in 2.” However, one should not forget that it is Ankalaev, who has been demanding the championship fight for months.

Meanwhile, a fan took a moment to reflect on Ankalaev’s argument before asking the Dagestani a crucial question, “Is it really gambling tho he’s just asking for donations.” Furthermore, another social media user called out to Ankalaev to take the bet, “Dude it’s not betting if it’s for charity. If he’s so confident about winning he just needed to accept.”

Since the day Magomed Ankalaev defeated Alexander Rakic, he has been making comments about giving a brutal beating to Alex Pereira. Taking this as an example a fan called him out on his hypocrisy, “betting is haram but making 100 tweets about killing this dude isn’t lmao biggest hypocrites.”

Finally, the Russian stalwart found some support as a social media user emphasized that Ankalaev is humble, “That’s a great response. Be humble.” Last but not least, a fan believes that Magomed Ankalaev’s victory is certain, “10-9 Ankalaev.” Alex Pereira(-104) is the slight betting favorite in the battle but Ankalaev(+100) is not far behind.

Magomed Ankalaev has asserted that he would use all of his weapons against Alex Pereira on Saturday night. Will we witness a wrestling battle or will it be a striking masterclass? State your thoughts in the comments below.