Alex Pereira, a name that has quickly become synonymous with dominance in the UFC, is on the brink of making history. With an impressive record that includes conquering both the light heavyweight and middleweight divisions in just seven fights, the Brazilian powerhouse is now being touted as a potential contender for the heavyweight title. This could make him the first-ever three-division champion in UFC history.
After Pereira’s latest victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303, the buzz around his potential move to heavyweight has intensified. UFC CEO Dana White revealed that the conversation about Pereira’s next step began almost immediately after his win. “I barely had time to wrap the belt around his waist before Joe Rogan was in my ear asking about him going to heavyweight,” White shared at the UFC 303 post-fight press conference.
But Rogan isn’t the only one excited about this possibility. According to White, there’s a growing chorus of voices, both within the UFC and among fans, who are eager to see Pereira test his mettle in the heavyweight division. “What it sounds like to me, not just Joe Rogan [but] everybody else wants to see him go to heavyweight,” White remarked.
Plinio Cruz revealed that Alex Pereira was awarded a $303K bonus by Dana White after #UFC303 💰👏 pic.twitter.com/2EuN9ucrYZ
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) July 1, 2024
For his part, Pereira seems unfazed by the prospect. Known for his fearless attitude and relentless drive, Pereira has expressed his willingness to fight anywhere, anytime. “When we were talking to him tonight, he doesn’t give a shit. He said, ‘I’ll fight at heavyweight. I’ll fight wherever you want, whenever you want,’” White recounted. “He’s ready to turn around and wants to fight again right away. He’s that guy. He’s a savage. The guy’s an absolute stud.”
Though there is a lot of excitement, White has indicated some reluctance regarding Pereira possibly switching to heavyweight. Even though Pereira has a proven track record and a positive mentality, switching to a new weight class presents a number of difficulties. Fighters in the heavyweight class are very different from those in the middleweight and light heavyweight classes in terms of their heft and strength.
“I am not entirely sure,” said White. “There are other factors to take into account, including the hazards and physical strain of increasing to heavyweight. Although Pereira is an amazing athlete, we don’t want to make this choice hastily. It’s something that requires serious consideration.”
White’s caution is understandable. The leap to heavyweight could either cement Pereira’s legacy as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history or pose a significant risk to his career. The physical toll, potential for injury, and the need to adapt to fighting much larger opponents are all factors that weigh heavily on such a decision.
In addition, White is renowned for his calculated approach to the top competitors in the UFC. It is critical to maintain Pereira’s career trajectory on a steady course. The CEO’s reluctance serves as a reminder of the fine line that must be drawn between appeasing fans’ appetite for exciting matchups and protecting the health and longevity of its athletes.
Fans are glued to their seats, anticipating Pereira’s next move in an already amazing career, as the discussion rages on. Regardless of whether he chooses to contend for the heavyweight title or stick with dominating his current divisions, Alex Pereira is a formidable force in the UFC.
In the coming months, the UFC community will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Pereira and White’s decision. The potential for a historic moment in MMA history hangs in the balance, promising to deliver the kind of drama and excitement that fans have come to expect from the sport.
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