Alex Pereira, the UFC’s newly crowned Light Heavyweight champion, is a striking sensation. With a reputation as one of MMA’s most devastating knockout artists, Pereira’s transition from a decorated kickboxing career raised concerns about his grappling skills. However, the 36-year-old Brazilian is proving doubters wrong.
Pereira’s path to the top of the UFC was paved with thunderous kicks and punches. Having captured multiple world titles in kickboxing, his stand-up prowess was undeniable. The expectation was that his grappling would be a chink in his armor inside the Octagon.
Flagrei essa cena entre Alex Poatan e Daniel Cormier nos bastidores do #UFCRio . Os dois começaram brincando de sparring até que o brasileiro colocou o americano pra baixo e teve até segurança pra separar 😂 Competitivo ou não o homem? 🗿 pic.twitter.com/YXxduQgeYS
— Coutinho (@luis_coutinho) May 1, 2024
Despite this perceived weakness, Pereira has defied expectations. In a short UFC stint of less than 10 fights, he’s captured championships at both Middleweight and Light Heavyweight, showcasing a well-rounded skillset that extends beyond his striking.
Recently, during UFC 301 fight week in Rio de Janeiro, Pereira found himself in a lighthearted grappling exchange with none other than Daniel Cormier, a legendary wrestler and former two-division champion. As captured in the embedded video, Cormier got a taste of Pereira’s grappling ability, a moment that went viral and challenged the narrative surrounding Pereira’s ground game.
You know every time @DC_MMA sees @AlexPereiraUFC he has to test out that wrestling 😂 #UFC301 pic.twitter.com/dW9iwk8nO4
— UFC (@ufc) May 1, 2024
Fresh off his first title defense, a dominant first-round knockout victory over Jamahal Hill at UFC 300, Pereira expressed a desire to compete on his home turf at UFC 301. While his wish wasn’t granted, with the Flyweight title fight between champion Alexandre Pantoja and Steve Erceg taking center stage, Pereira’s impressive performance and surprising grappling display ensure he remains a name on everyone’s lips.
