Michael Bisping, former UFC champion, and current commentator and analagogue, gave the reason for Alex Pereira's loss to Magomed Ankalaev.
"Alex Pereira's performance was kind of lazy. I didn't see any real desire to win. Ancalaev was strong and good enough to compete in the standup, and of course, he was a threat to take downs. Even though he didn't land a single takedown, the very threat of them was as effective as the knockdown itself, as it opened up opportunities for him in the striking department. It prevented Pereira from being more aggressive."