Alex Pereira is gearing up for his UFC title defense against Khalil Rountree this weekend at UFC 307. Both fighters will fight each other for five rounds with the UFC light heavyweight title on the line. It will be Pereira’s third title defense in the division, and the Brazilian fighter is looking forward to it. In order to stay motivated, the Brazilian made sure to visit the place where it all began.
Alex Pereira has established himself as one of the biggest superstars in the current UFC roster. The Brazilian fighter is a pay-per-view star and has headlined some of the biggest UFC events in the last few years. However, for ‘Poatan,’ all this was nothing short of a dream when he had nothing and was living in his favela in Brazil.
Things weren’t easy growing up. A lot of people might say,’ Oh, but now Alex is champion. Well that’s now. My life changed not so long ago…Growing up in the favela was a good thing, you’re faced with challenges.
Alex Pereira via UFC 307 Countdown
In the video, Pereira helped his former community by giving them food to motivate them. The light heavyweight champion mentioned that he was once one of them and struggled a lot. Now, life has blessed him, and he wants to give it back to others. The people showed their appreciation and thanked the fighter for his contribution.
Pereira also visited his old barbershop and tire business, where he had worked. Pereira is a fan favorite who always provides exciting battles whenever he enters the octagon. He’s a knockout artist known for his ability to down opponents at any time throughout a bout. Going forward, the Brazilian fighter wants to maintain his domination.
UFC legend explains Alex Pereira’s greatness
Since coming to the UFC, Alex Pereira has fought five title fights and has won four of them. He has defeated five former champions, including big names such as Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. His influence and popularity multiplied with each victory, making him a global superstar who is currently carrying the promotion on his back.
Alex Pereira (via X)Despite this, the UFC champion has maintained his focus and determination. Glover Teixeira, a former UFC champion and one of Pereira’s coaches, has seen the fighter up close. During a recent interview, the legend discussed what makes Pereira great and distinguished from other champions.
The guy, mentality of a warrior. He works out so hard and knows what he have to do to maintain as a champion. It’s harder to maintain the championship than to win because before you win the championship you have the hunger but after you see fighter go ups and down but Alex stay focus.
Glover Teixeira via The Schmo
Fans anticipate a striking matchup between Pereira and Khalil Rountree at UFC 307. The challenger vowed to avoid takedowns and keep the bout standing. While Pereira does not necessarily trust it, he will not back down from the challenge. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see how the Brazilian retains the light heavyweight title.
