After a triumphant victory at UFC 320, light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has set his sights on ambitious future challenges. Pereira reclaimed his title by defeating Magomed Ankalaev, a rematch that solidified his top position in the light heavyweight division.
Future Challenges for Alex Pereira
The win over Ankalaev reignited discussions about Pereira’s next steps in the UFC. While Carlos Ulberg is a potential contender in the light heavyweight category, middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has also shown interest in joining the title conversation. However, Pereira is not particularly interested in either matchup.
Earlier this year, Pereira contemplated moving to the heavyweight division for a chance at another title. After temporarily losing his title to Ankalaev, those plans were sidelined. With his recent victory, the idea of challenging for the heavyweight championship has again come to the forefront.
Aiming for Jon Jones
Pereira has expressed a desire to face Jon Jones in what he terms a “superfight.” He was prepared to make this request during the UFC White House event. However, the timing seems complicated, given recent developments involving Jones.
Jones, who retired earlier this year, had decided against unifying his heavyweight title. Following the announcement of the UFC White House card, Jones resumed training and is seeking to secure a spot on the fight card. Pereira made his intentions clear: “I want a superfight. It would be at the White House against Jon Jones. That’s a superfight.”
UFC CEO’s Concerns
UFC CEO Dana White has voiced skepticism regarding booking Jones for the White House event, mentioning a lack of trust. Additionally, he seems uninterested in Pereira pursuing heavyweight challenges while still champion at light heavyweight.
Pereira, however, remains confident. He downplayed the notion of needing to relinquish his title: “I don’t think that’s needed. Everyone knows how often I fight, so that’s not going to be an issue.” He is ready to compete regardless of the challenges ahead.
Potential Next Opponents
Should the UFC require Pereira to defend his light heavyweight title, he is open to the challenge. When asked whom he prefers to face next, he simply stated, “The best. Whoever is the best.”
- Event: UFC 320
- Opponent: Magomed Ankalaev
- Next Target: Jon Jones
- Current Title: Light Heavyweight Champion
- Potential Future Challenger: Heavyweight title holder
As the landscape of the UFC continues to evolve, all eyes are on Alex Pereira and his next strategic moves in the ring.
