UFC 314 is already shaping up to be a blockbuster event, but the MMA world’s attention is shifting to what may come when the dust settles. Wait, you didn’t get what we’re talking about? Fret not, as we’re back with another episode of EssentiallySports’ MMA news roundup. So saddle up, because today’s compilation has something for every fight fan.

In the midst of swirling fight week drama, Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev are rumored to fight again in a brand-new city. Then we will move on to the latest move by Michel Pereira, as he provided clarification on his recent controversy. In a surprise happy ending, two former Bellator legends may have finally resolved their long-running feud. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Magomed Ankalaev hints at Chicago for Alex Pereira rematch at UFC 319

When Magomed Ankalaev dethroned Alex Pereira at UFC 313, he did more than just win the light heavyweight title; he shook the entire division. Though the Russian won comfortably on the scorecards, Dana White promised Pereira an instant rematch, implying that the rivalry between the two was far from over. While fans speculated about when and where the sequel would take place, Ankalaev may have just revealed the answer himself.

In a mysterious X post on Wednesday, he wrote, “Who likes deep-dish pizza?” —a not-so-subtle reference to Chicago, the city renowned for the cheesy treat. He then added, “One month ago, I broke a lot of hearts, in August, Big Ank is here to dunk Chicago Bulls style,” suggesting a probable return at UFC 319 in August. Though not officially announced, this confirms previous speculations about the UFC returning to Chicago for the first time since UFC 238 in 2019. And, given that Alex Pereira was battling both a fractured hand and norovirus during their first confrontation, the Brazilian may be yearning for redemption in better conditions. If true, UFC 319 in Chicago might feature a July clash between two of the most dangerous light heavyweights alive.

Michel Pereira speaks out on cheating allegations

Outside the cage, Michel Pereira has found himself in the midst of a personal storm—but he is finally breaking the silence. Amid swirling rumors about allegations made by an anonymous woman, Pereira rushed to Instagram with a forceful denial and a message directed at his critics. “I am putting this statement out today to clear a situation that never happened,” he wrote. “I have never seen the woman who is putting out these rumors. I would never disrespect my family, especially my wife and my son.”

The Brazilian fighter, famed for his spectacular fighting style and acrobatics inside the Octagon, stated that he is focused on both his forthcoming bout and keeping the peace at home. ‘Demolidor’ described the claims as untrue, adding that, “Cheating allegations are absolutely false! I would never disrespect my wife who is not just a wife but a complete woman for me.”  While the matter remains private for now, fans would be hoping for a positive update.

Patricio Pitbull and Michael Chandler end longtime feud

Bellator superstars Patricio Pitbull and Michael Chandler have one of the most heated rivalries outside of the UFC, with trash talk, bad blood, and a nasty 61-second knockout marking their shared past. But during UFC 314 fight week, something unexpected happened: they finally buried the hatchet. Pitbull, who is poised to make his UFC debut against Yair Rodriguez this weekend, recently claimed that he would not accept Chandler’s apology for years of demeaning insults directed at him and his brother, Patricky. But all of that changed during UFC 314 media day when the two met face-to-face.

“He apologized to me; he said some harsh words and was going through a rough moment in his life,” Pitbull said. “He had the honor to come and say that, so I accepted it.” While the chances of a rematch between the two appear teeny-tiny, especially given Chandler’s co-main event clash against Paddy Pimblett, fans were treated to a rare and refreshing showing of sportsmanship between two hardened warriors. For the time being, there is only love and mutual respect, at least until the cage door closes again. So, what are your thoughts on Ankalaev’s Chicago tease, Michel Pereira’s post, and Pitbull and Chandler’s emotional reunion? Let us know in the comments.