Alex Pereira, the UFC light heavyweight champion, reached a new level of fame in 2024. He defended his title three times with impressive knockouts, becoming a prominent figure in the UFC.
This success has opened doors to new opportunities for Pereira. He recently accepted his first major acting role in Adam Wingard’s upcoming film “Onslaught,” alongside well-known actors. Additionally, he traveled to support Sean Strickland at UFC 312 in February, just weeks before his own title defense against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313.
Despite Pereira’s claims of remaining focused for his next fight, UFC veteran Matt Brown suggests that “Poatan” could be experiencing distractions common among champions who achieve success both in and out of the octagon.
“It’s definitely possible that he’s distracted,” Brown stated on “The Fighter vs. The Writer” podcast. “He doesn’t seem like the type, but it’s absolutely plausible because the training required to reach the top is often very different from maintaining it once you’re there.”
Brown elaborated, “During his rise, distractions were minimal. He won GLORY championships but didn’t have widespread fame then. Now, he’s facing attention from all sides. It’s hard to imagine his mindset is exactly the same, with the same hunger. Meanwhile, Ankalaev has a lot riding on this fight. He’s considered the underdog, possibly underestimated, and feels he’s had a long road to get this title shot, perhaps even feeling overlooked compared to Alex. Whether that’s true or not, he’s facing a very motivated opponent.”
Ankalaev was arguably the top contender before Pereira’s fight with Khalil Rountree Jr. last October and further solidified his claim with another win over Aleksandar Rakic.
Despite some uncertainty, the UFC ultimately granted Ankalaev the opportunity to headline against Pereira.
Ankalaev’s physical attributes, striking ability, and combat sambo background arguably make him the toughest opponent Pereira has faced as champion. Furthermore, Pereira has primarily fought opponents willing to engage in striking exchanges, which Ankalaev might avoid.
“Alex has vulnerabilities he needs to address,” Brown noted. “While his achievements are undeniable, he has benefited from favorable matchups. He hasn’t yet faced elite wrestlers or jiu-jitsu experts, or top-tier grapplers. We know these are areas of potential weakness. To continue his ascent, he needs to dedicate the same intense effort he invested in his striking to improve his grappling.”
Brown continued, “Because eventually, these challenges will arise. His matchups have been advantageous, and acknowledging this doesn’t diminish his incredible run. It’s been fascinating and impressive. However, it would be foolish to ignore that his matchups have been favorable, and he needs to focus on strengthening his weaknesses. It’s questionable whether he can do this effectively while managing numerous commitments in Australia and elsewhere. That’s where my concern lies.”
Brown has consistently praised Pereira’s successful transition from kickboxing to MMA. At 37, Pereira is among the oldest UFC champions, alongside Jon Jones, and has appeared dominant in victories over fighters like Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka.
However, Brown believes Pereira will eventually face an opponent who truly tests him, and any lack of full preparation could be detrimental.
“I’m not predicting he’ll be exposed, but his weaknesses will be tested,” Brown said. “I expect Ankalaev to try and exploit those areas. It’s strategically wise for him.”
“Ankalaev doesn’t receive the same hype as some fighters. It’s just hype. Objectively, considering their styles, Ankalaev is a difficult matchup. This doesn’t mean Pereira can’t land an early knockout like he did against Jamahal Hill. We know Pereira’s striking power is dangerous. But Ankalaev is hungry. This is his chance for recognition and to prove doubters wrong. Being underestimated and facing unfavorable odds can be extra motivation.”
Throughout Pereira’s light heavyweight journey, Brown admits this is the most concerned he’s been about a potential upset, but he still leans towards Pereira winning. He suggests this fight could be a necessary wake-up call for Pereira to prioritize his fighting career and minimize external distractions.
“I’m still picking Alex. But these distractions could impact his performance. However, Ankalaev’s issue is he’s not a consistent finisher. If he wins, it’s likely by decision, which is a risky path against Pereira.”
“My confidence in Alex isn’t as high as it has been in previous fights where I felt certain of his victory. This time, I’m less sure, partly due to the distraction factor and partly because Ankalaev is a genuinely formidable opponent.”
