Alex Pereira continues to showcase his prowess in two divisions, coming closer to dominating them both.
Formerly a star in Glory Kickboxing, Pereira held titles at middleweight and light heavyweight before transitioning to the UFC. He secured the 185-pound belt by defeating his rival Israel Adesanya at UFC 281, only to lose it back to Adesanya in a subsequent rematch. Undeterred, Pereira made an impressive debut at 205 pounds during UFC 291, claiming a split decision victory over Jan Blachowicz.
While it wasn’t an overwhelmingly dominant win, defeating a former champion has elevated Pereira to the top 5 in the MMA Hook Global Rankings.
Pereira’s journey in the MMA world is unique, with his past kickboxing success adding to his reputation. But it was his two wins against Adesanya, particularly the spectacular knockout in their second encounter, that paved the way for him to be recognized by UFC matchmakers and positioned him on a path toward title contention.
With the UFC light heavyweight title being vacated twice due to injuries suffered by Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill, Pereira stands on the cusp of fighting for gold once again. While some may question whether he deserves a shot at the vacant title, given that he has only had ten professional bouts and is relatively new to the 205-pound division, there are limited contenders standing in his way, with the likes of Magomed Ankalaev or Prochazka being the most viable options.
Even if Pereira intends to return to middleweight to settle unfinished business with Adesanya, granting him a chance at “champ-champ” status in the light heavyweight division seems justified.
Do you believe Alex Pereira has done enough to earn a place in the vacant UFC light heavyweight title fight? Cast your vote in the poll and share your thoughts in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Light Heavyweights
Q: Is Alex Pereira considered one of the top 5 light heavyweights in the world?
A: Yes, after his successful debut at UFC 291 with a split decision win over Jan Blachowicz, Alex Pereira has been catapulted into the top 5 of the MMA Hook Global Rankings.
Q: What achievements has Alex Pereira accomplished in the past?
A: Prior to his move to the UFC, Alex Pereira was a renowned Glory Kickboxing star who won titles at both middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.
Q: How did Pereira’s victories over Israel Adesanya impact his UFC career?
A: Pereira’s two wins against Israel Adesanya, including a remarkable knockout in their second fight, significantly contributed to his recognition by UFC matchmakers and his path to title contention.
Q: Is Alex Pereira expected to fight for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title?
A: Yes, with the light heavyweight title being vacated due to injuries to Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill, Alex Pereira is a strong contender for the vacant title fight, although his limited experience in the division might be a point of consideration.
Q: What could be Pereira’s future plans in the UFC?
A: While Pereira may have intentions to return to middleweight for a rematch with Adesanya, he has a viable opportunity to achieve “champ-champ” status first by pursuing the light heavyweight title.
More about Light Heavyweights
- UFC 281: Alex Pereira Wins 185-Pound Belt
- UFC 291: Alex Pereira’s Successful Debut at Light Heavyweight
- MMA Hook Global Rankings
- Glory Kickboxing
- Alex Pereira’s Fight Record
- UFC Light Heavyweight Division
- Israel Adesanya’s UFC Profile
- Jiri Prochazka’s Injury News
- Jamahal Hill’s Ruptured Achilles News
3 comments
vacated title again? pereira’s got a shot! not many contenders, he might take it home! “champ-champ” dreams alive!
alex pereira, da rising starr, takin’ on two divisions! top 5 now afta dat UFC win, wow!
pereira’s kickboxin’ succe$$ made it happen, got UFC’s attention & 2 wins ova adesanya! title shot’s lookin’ good.