Once again, light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has grabbed the attention of a prominent boxer on the global stage. Olympic silver medalist Zhilei Zhang stated that the Brazilian’s remarkable power would undoubtedly make him an exciting prospect in the heavyweight division.
Zhang has recently defeated Deontay Wilder via KO. According to the Chinese boxer, Pereira’s power would definitely be effective in the division. As such, Zhang even shared his thoughts on Pereira’s potential move to the heavyweight category.
He’s (Alex Pereira) a good boxer, I can tell you he has good reflections, good speed and good power. I watch him fight a lot, in UFC, he kind of dominates everybody standing, and striking… I think he has the power to translate to heavyweight.
Zhang Zhilei via MMAFighting
Pereira is a force to be reckoned with as a former undisputed middleweight champion. He currently holds the UFC light heavyweight belt. Just last month, he took the spotlight at UFC 303 and emerged victorious. His impressive performance caught the attention of Anthony Joshua, who suggested Pereira consider stepping into the boxing ring.
Recently, Zhang was seen honing his skills in a sparring session with the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion. Pereira is well-known for his strong bonds with fellow fighters. It’s not just Zhang; other fighters have also spoken highly of Pereira’s talents and character.
Anderson Silva acknowledges Alex Pereira’s journey in the UFC
At UFC 303, Alex ‘Poatan’ Pereira showcased his dominance once again by successfully defending his 205-pound crown. In an electrifying display of skill, Pereira delivered a stunning second-round knockout to Jiri Prochazka with a powerful high kick. Even GOAT candidate Anderson Silva has acknowledged Pereira’s exceptional command of the division.
Anderson Silva sings high praises for Alex Pereira (via X)The ex-UFC middleweight champion expressed great admiration for his fellow Brazilian fighter. During an episode of the Flow Podcast, the UFC Hall of Famer recognized Pereira’s accomplishments in the UFC. He also emphasized the remarkable toughness of the light heavyweight champion.
Poatan (Alex Pereira) is making history. He was a champion of the lower division which is incredibly difficult… And now he won the upper division, which is a very challenging division as well. I trained with him, he is an absolute freak… If you touch the guy it hurts dude, you punch the guy in the wrong place, you get hurt.
Anderson Silva via Flow Podcast #299
Pereira has been on a dominant streak just two years into his time with the Dana White-led promotion. There is speculation that he may soon make a significant move to the heavyweight division. This ambitious attempt of Poatan might result in becoming the first-ever three-weight champion in Octagon history.
However, what Pereira will decide for his future remains to be seen. As of now, the UFC light heavyweight has taken a break from fighting and is currently rejuvenating to come back to dominate the division again.
