The narrow margin between Pereira and Ankalaev in the UFC betting market represents just how closely aligned the pair have been since their ascent into the promotion. Seemingly, neither have faced a foe worthy of their incredible ability.

Though former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones, pound-for-pound one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, hasn’t fought in a year-and-a-half, he has remained at the forefront of the division’s conversation all along.