In a recent interview with Ariel Helwani on MMA Hour, Alex Pereira delved into a range of topics surrounding his upcoming light heavyweight title bout at UFC 295. He reflected on his recent performance against Jan Blachowicz and weighed in on whether he feels more at ease in the 185 or 205-pound division.
Poatan also touched on his thoughts regarding Sean Strickland, his upcoming opponent Jiri Prochazka, and his motivation to win this fight for his coach, Glover Teixeira. Additionally, he shared insights into his training regimen, including his work with Dillon Danis, and addressed any ongoing issues with Anthony Smith.
Pereira puts friendship with Strickland ahead of title pursuit
Pereira stood out as one of the few who believed in Strickland’s potential to secure a win over Israel Adesanya, despite the surprise it generated in the MMA community. Pereira’s prediction of Sean Strickland winning over Israel Adesanya came to fruition at UFC 293.
The Brazilian fighter conveyed his thoughts, stating that he was the vocal minority who believed in Strickland’s chances over Adesanya. He refrained from delving into specifics to avoid assisting Adesanya. Pereira wasn’t taken aback by the outcome and lauded Strickland’s stellar striking performance.
Pereira’s faith in Tarzan was fortified by their training sessions and friendship. He also confirmed his commitment to his current weight class, furthermore, clarifying that he has no plans to return to the middleweight division to get the title as Strickland is a close friend.
Pereira had previously secured the middleweight title by knocking out Adesanya at UFC 287. However, he made the move up to light heavyweight following Adesanya’s title win in the rematch at UFC 291. His next challenge is set to be against Jiri Prochazka for the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 295 headlined by Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic.
Alex Pereira slams MMA experts for underestimating Sean Strickland
Sean Strickland winning against Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 was a big surprise for the MMA community. The MMA media was hugely in favor of Adesanya retaining the title but Strickland and his coach, Eric Nicksick had other plans.
As the media overwhelmingly favored The Last Stylebender, Pereira, who was steadfast in Strickland upsetting Adesanya, posted on X that his prediction had come true and also criticized the MMA media for not giving Strickland the credit he deserved.
In the aftermath of UFC 293, some sections of the MMA community were of the opinion that Adesanya looked off and was not at his best. However, the Brazilian and others are of the opinion that Strickland nullified the Nigerian-Kiwi’s game plan.
Do you think Sean Strickland retains the title if he fights Israel Adesanya in a rematch? comment below!
