And still. That’s what Modestas Bukauskas expects to hear after the main event of UFC 320.
Bukauskas (18-6 MMA, 6-4 UFC), a UFC light heavyweight veteran, believes the belt won’t change hands in his division when Magomed Ankalaev rematches Alex Pereira next month at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Back in March, Ankalaev dethroned Pereira and captured the UFC title at 205 pounds in a dominant decision win. Bukauskas expects a similar fight this time around.
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“I personally believe Ankalaev will get the job done again,” Bukauskas said at Wednesday’s UFC Fight Night 258 media day. “Obviously Pereira is extremely powerful, and he’s also very well versed in every area, as well, because we saw his takedown defense definitely held up that fight, but I just feel it’s Ankalaev’s time now. He had a hell of a performance in the first fight, and I feel it will go the same way in the second.”
Bukauskas wants to eventually get a crack of his own at the title. He takes on veteran Paul Craig (17-9-1 MMA, 9-9-1 UFC) this Saturday on the main card of UFC Fight Night 258 (ESPN+) at Accor Arena in Paris. Bukauskas is planning on getting a finish and making a statement win and taking one step closer to the belt.
“One hundred percent, it’s got to be a top-15 matchup,” Bukauskas said when asked what would follow a win over Craig. “I want to state my claim as one of the very best in the light heavyweight division, so top-15 matchup has to be next.”
Bukauskas has a name in mind for his next bout, but that will remain a secret at least for now.
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“I got something coming,” Bukauskas said. “I’ll be making a callout (if) I go out there and get the job done. I have to go out there, put on a spectacular performance, get the job done, and I do have something in mind.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Modestas Bukauskas gives prediction for Ankalaev vs. Pereira 2