In the current UFC light heavyweight division, Alex ‘Poatan’ Pereira stands out as the champion and is one of the most talked-about fighters in the promotion. Throughout 2024, the Brazilian fighter has faced several formidable opponents in title fights. Recently, one of Alex Pereira’s former opponents shared insights about their mindset during their clash.
In 2024, Alex Pereira’s list of opponents includes Jiri Prochazka, Khalil Rountree, and Jamahal Hill. Recently, Rountree appeared in a video by Fight Energy Films where he discussed various intriguing topics. ‘The War Horse’ talked about his last fight against the UFC light heavyweight champion. Surprisingly, he expressed that he felt happy even after being brutally defeated by Pereira at UFC 307.
The only thing I can really remember is just being happy. Even the moment when I got finished in the fourth round, I just felt so happy throughout that whole fight. It felt like I was where I belonged. I felt like I belonged there. So it was really like living in a dream and there was nothing but happiness and excitement in those moments.
Khalil Rountree via Fight Energy Films
Interestingly, this development is surprising for one particular reason. Over the years, the UFC community has seen numerous fighters express their determination to avenge their losses. Jamahal Hill is a prominent example of this, as he was eager to face Pereira again. However, Rountree does not feel any animosity toward the champion. Instead, the ‘War Horse’ was all praises for the Brazilian fighter.
Khalil Rountree says he felt happy after losing to Alex Pereira:
“Even the moment when I got finished in the fourth round, I just felt so happy throughout that whole fight.
It felt like I was where I belong.”
🎥 @fightenergyfilm #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/FIXDTDUTgJ
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) December 27, 2024
When it comes to praise, Rountree has received a surge of admiration from several prominent figures in the combat sports community. Notably, heavyweight boxing star Tyson Fury and UFC CEO Dana White both expressed their appreciation for Rountree’s fighting spirit at UFC 307. Meanwhile, Poatan’s impressive performances have also garnered significant respect within the UFC community.
Chael Sonnen picks Alex Pereira as the Male Fighter of the Year
‘Poatan’ has been a fearless force in the UFC since his debut. Recently, he has further elevated his status in the promotion by successfully defending his title. In this process, Alex Pereira has defeated several formidable opponents, often finishing them decisively on multiple occasions. One notable example of this is former 205 lbs champion Jiri Prochazka.
Alex Pereira at UFC 300 (Image via NY Post)UFC legend and prominent MMA analyst Chael Sonnen recently participated in an engaging discussion with Daniel Cormier, where they shared their picks for Male Fighter of the Year. Cormier chose Ilia Topuria, while Sonnen confidently selected Pereira. Sonnen also provided his reasons for choosing the UFC light heavyweight champion as the Male Fighter of the Year.
Alex Pereira and it is not just the skills. It is the skills in conjuction with the attitude… In theory, that (UFC 300) was the biggest event of Dana White’s career. Alex Pereira was so sincere in his desire to headline that card that he was willing to take on Tom Aspinall at heavyweight and that was not a bluff…
Chael Sonnen via ESPN MMA (Check from 0:45)
Sonnen emphasized Pereira’s willingness to step in for short-notice fights, which has helped save several pay-per-view events. A notable instance of this was when Conor McGregor withdrew from his UFC 303 fight, and the Brazilian fighter took his place to face the tough competitor Prochazka. According to the UFC legend, these actions are what set Pereira apart from other fighters in 2024.
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