Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz has publicly criticized the UFC for booking current champion Alex Pereira against No. 8-ranked Khalil Rountree Jr. for UFC 307, instead of allowing him or No. 2-ranked Magomed Ankalaev to fight for the title. Blachowicz feels that the UFC is providing Pereira with 'special protection' to secure a favorable matchup that could lead to another knockout victory. He expressed confusion and frustration over the matchmaking decisions, questioning why he wasn't considered for a rematch after his split decision loss to Pereira. This sentiment echoes previous concerns raised by fighters like Daniel Cormier regarding perceived favoritism in the UFC's matchmaking. Blachowicz also highlighted the oddity of Ankalaev being paired with Aleksandar Rakic instead of facing Pereira, despite his higher ranking. The controversial booking has reignited discussions about the UFC's tendency to shield its star fighters from tougher opponents.