The world of mixed martial arts has witnessed numerous incredible achievements, but one feat remains elusive: becoming a champion in three different weight classes. While fighters like Frankie Edgar, Conor McGregor, and Jared Cannonier have secured victories in three categories, none have managed to claim the top spot in three distinct divisions. Conor McGregor, also known as ‘The Notorious,’ came close, holding titles in both the featherweight and lightweight categories simultaneously, but he never competed for the welterweight title. However, Alex Pereira, with a record of 12-2, is determined to make history and become the first to achieve this remarkable goal.
Pereira, known as ‘Poatan,’ is the biggest superstar in the UFC, and whenever he steps into the octagon, the world watches. This Saturday will be no exception as he puts his light heavyweight title on the line against Magomed Ankalaev. Pereira’s intention is to finish the Russian and then move up to the heavyweight division to achieve something unprecedented. The Brazilian will headline UFC 313 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, facing one of the toughest challenges of his career. Despite many considering Ankalaev his nemesis, Pereira’s confidence has led him to think beyond his upcoming fight, and he’s already looking to the future.
In an interview with Shak MMA, Pereira discussed the possibility of moving up to the heavyweight division and becoming a double champion. “If I can maintain two titles, I think my weight is good for both divisions. I think I could do it,” he stated. Having already been the middleweight champion in 2022, this feat would make him the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in three different weight classes. Pereira’s plan is to defend both titles, alternating between the two weight classes without vacating the light heavyweight title. If anyone can achieve this, it’s ‘Poatan,’ who is destined to become one of the most important fighters in the history of combat sports, having also been a double champion in kickboxing in GLORY.
Pereira will need to overcome the hurdle of Ankalaev to set his plan in motion. The Brazilian’s intention is to knock out the Russian and then move up to the heavyweight division. A win would bring him one step closer to making history. As the biggest superstar in the UFC, Pereira’s fights are always highly anticipated, and his upcoming bout against Ankalaev is no exception.
Jon Jones, the Next Opponent?
If Pereira’s plan unfolds as expected, his next target would be the heavyweight champion. With the upcoming fight between Jon Jones, the undisputed champion, and Tom Aspinall, the interim champion, Pereira was asked about the possibility of training with ‘Bones.’ He responded, “It doesn’t make sense to train with him now. If we end up fighting, people will start saying a lot of things. If we fight one day and then go train together, that would make sense.” Pereira’s response suggests that he’s focused on his upcoming fight and isn’t looking to distract himself with training sessions with potential future opponents.
Jon Jones has expressed his preference for a fight with Pereira, stating that it would be more media-friendly and better for his legacy. However, Dana White has made it clear that Jones has two options: retire or fight Aspinall. If Jones emerges victorious against the interim champion, White has hinted that he would reward him with a fight against Pereira. While both fighters have a deep respect for each other, they’re aware that their paths may cross soon. The stage is set for an epic showdown between two of the greatest fighters in the UFC, and fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness greatness.
