The UFC 307 main event featuring light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and challenger Khalil Rountree was intense. The latter bore the brunt of the battle. The American fighter couldn’t overcome the most formidable fighter of his division. After the brutal loss, the challenger has spoken out about the fight and his feelings.
When the UFC 307 fight card was announced, Rountree had the opportunity to climb from being ranked #8 to becoming the light heavyweight champion. However, that didn’t happen. After the loss, the American fighter expressed his emotions in writing. Not only that, Rountree has also extended his gratitude to several individuals who helped in the fight.
I didn’t win the title but I grew last night. @alexpoatanpereira thanks for helping me see that I’m ready to take on the world. You showed amazing skill, you brought out a version of me that I needed to experience. You’re the champ for a reason, much respect…
Khalil Rountree via Instagram (@khalilrountree)
The American fighter fought in-form light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira in Salt Lake City, Utah. Even though he couldn’t defeat ‘Poatan,’ Rountree seemingly earned many fans. Not only that, several prominent individuals of the fighting community sang praises of the American fighter’s courage and bravery. Additionally, even the UFC CEO Dana White gave respect to Rountree for fighting his heart out.
In his last five fights, Khalil Rountree’s only defeat came against Alex Pereira at UFC 307. As usual, Pereira’s performance caused a huge stir on the internet and boosted his reputation as well. With that win, Poatan now wants to take on other strong opponents in his division. As for Rountree, it’s uncertain what his next move in the division will be.
Alex Pereira labels his fight against Khalil Rountree as the ‘toughest’
Over his illustrious UFC career, Alex Pereira has fought several formidable opponents. Interestingly, most of them couldn’t even get past the third round with Poatan. Since his debut, only two fighters have managed to do that. Israel Adesanya was one, and his recent opponent Khalil Rountree was the other. Although Pereira won both fights, he feels Rountree gave him a tough fight as compared to others.
Pereira is a dedicated striker. Interestingly, Rountree agreed to a no-takedown pact before their fight despite knowing Pereira’s strengths. However, even after the Brazilian champion caused a cut on Rountree, he continued to fight with that damage. Pereira was impressed by his opponent’s determination and praised him during the post-fight octagon interview.
I can say that this was one of the toughest fights. I expected that. I watched a lot of Khalil’s fights. He has got experience, he has trained in the best spots in Thailand and he showed tonight why he has got so much quality in here.
Alex Pereira via UFC 307 Octagon interview
However, that shouldn’t take away from Pereira’s exceptional performance despite several health complications. Even though Rountree failed to capitalize against the champion, it surely has boosted his confidence. That being said, how he will utilize that confidence in his upcoming bouts remains to be seen.
