It remains unclear when Alex Pereira will return to the Octagon, though many expect him to pursue a rematch for the light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev later this year. After a challenging encounter at <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/ufc/”>UFC 313, where Ankalaev defeated him, Pereira has taken time off following a demanding 2024, during which he played a significant role in supporting the UFC. His focus seems to be on regaining the belt, but speculation about a move to heavyweight has intensified.
Weigh-In at Over 240 Pounds Fuels Speculation About Heavyweight Ambitions
Prior to losing his light heavyweight title to Ankalaev, discussions about Pereira’s possible jump to heavyweight were already circulating. Though he appears intent on a rematch for the title, hints from recent activity have led fans to question if he’s considering competing in the heavyweight division sooner rather than later. Pereira, who initially made a name for himself as a middleweight contender before claiming the light heavyweight crown, posted a video showing his weight at about 110.3 kilograms (roughly 243 pounds). This significant weight reading sparked debate among fans about whether he is preparing for the heavyweight class.
Comments from supporters and critics alike varied widely: some expressed confidence in his ability to compete against established heavyweights, while others doubted his size could match up effectively.
“Ngl Poatan sleeps [Tom] Aspinall.” —Fan comment
“Bro is getting Tom.” —Fan comment
“Heavyweight is next for Alex, he’s not beating Ankalaev. There’s no point in a rematch.” —Fan comment
“Nope, he’s still way too small for heavyweight. Even Curtis Blaydes would manhandle my goat unfortunately.” —Fan comment
Others clarified that a weigh-in around this range is not unusual for Pereira, even during his usual fight preparations.
“He posts a weigh in at this weight every fight camp.” —Fan comment
“That’s pretty standard for a LHW [light heavyweight]. Do none of you guys know how much these guys weigh outside of camp??” —Fan comment
Comparison with Jon Jones Highlights Pereira’s Weight Status
Pereira’s current weight surpasses that of Jon Jones when Jones last fought in the UFC, raising further curiosity about his readiness to compete at heavyweight. Jon Jones weighed 237.6 pounds when defending his heavyweight title at UFC 309, a figure slightly below Pereira’s recent scale reading. Similarly, heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic weighed 248.6 pounds, close to Pereira’s current reported weight. Despite this, fans speculate that Pereira has not been intentionally bulking up for heavyweight competition, which challenges the timing of any potential move up in divisions.
Although Pereira’s future remains uncertain, the ongoing debate surrounding his weight and division choice underscores the tension among fans and analysts alike about the best path forward for the Brazilian fighter. Whether he will seek immediate redemption against Ankalaev or pivot toward testing himself against heavyweight contenders remains the most pressing question ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Alex Pereira’s ex?
A. A Look at Alex Pereira’s Past Relationship With Ex-Girlfriend Merle Christine.