The UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Alex Pereira, who stepped in to save UFC 303 after Conor McGregor withdrew, has reacted to the former champion’s exit. Pereira cited his own experience fighting with the same injury at UFC 300, where he won his first title defense. Despite not fully recovering, the Brazilian has accepted a rematch with Jiri Prochazka on short notice, for which he is also getting a lot of praise from MMA fans and fellow fighters.
Pereira’s classy answer when asked about McGregor’s withdrawal
In an interview, Pereira gave a great answer to those comparing McGregor to him. “Poatan” stated that both situations are different and that McGregor has the means to make such decisions.
“People will say ‘Oh, but you fought with a broken toe’ but we had different situations and different moments in our lives and I felt like I had to fight and if he feels he can’t fight, it’s really his decision and how he feels,” said Pereira.
The Notorious was set to face Michael Chandler in a welterweight bout. This clash was expected to headline UFC 303. The two have previously coached against each other in The Ultimate Fighter: Team McGregor vs. Team Chandler.
On June 13, the announcement was made that McGregor had suffered an injury, so his clash with Chandler will be postponed. The Irishman later revealed in a post that he broke his toe during a training session.
Pereira and Prochazka will headline the event
Now a new headliner for the event has been finalized in the form of a rematch between UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka. Their last encounter was at UFC 295 in November 2023, where Pereira won the vacant title via second-round TKO. Prochazka is expected to give Pereira his toughest test in the light heavyweight division.
Dana White is uncertain about the Irish Star’s return
Conor McGregor expressed his disappointment on social media at having to withdraw from the matchup due to breaking a bone in his foot during a training session without protective gear. He stressed his commitment to returning for his fans and fulfilling his remaining obligations with the promotion.
Although McGregor seems to be focused on returning to the UFC, Dana White has expressed uncertainty about the former champion’s return to the Octagon, saying he is not sure if he can schedule a fight for McGregor in 2024.
Also Read: Dana White reveals potential date for Khamzat Chimaev’s return
