In the current UFC roster, there are several formidable fighters. UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira are two of the notable names on that list. Interestingly, there has been considerable speculation about a potential fight between them. Recently, Pereira and Jones even video-called each other, leaving fans curious about what might happen next.
In recent months, Alex Pereira has significantly enhanced his reputation within the UFC community. As a result, he has often been linked to a potential fight against Jon Jones. As such, many prominent individuals have expressed enthusiasm for this matchup. Jones and Pereira recently acknowledged the buzz by posting a screenshot of their video call.
UFC CEO Dana White seemed quite interested in the potential matchup. However, neither Pereira nor Jones revealed what they discussed during their call. It was likely a casual conversation. Most recently, at the Noche UFC (UFC 306) fight night, Pereira and Jones appeared to enjoy each otherโs company. As such, the two UFC champions were even seen dancing with Nina Marie-Danielle that night.
Alex Pereira and Jon Jones on a FaceTime call ๐
โEven Dana White would be curious of what we talked about.โ
๐ธ IG / @AlexPereiraUFC #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/hjuiREVHOn
โ Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 24, 2024
A few months ago, Jon Jones was prepared to offer Alex Pereira a title shot. As such, Jones even referred to it as a โlegacy fight.โ However, that match did not occur since Jones is now set to defend his heavyweight title for the first time this November. Although the fight between Pereira and Jones didnโt materialize, the Brazilian has expressed interest in training with the heavyweight champion.
Alex Pereira is open to training with Jon Jones
There has been a clash between Pereira and Jones regarding the pound-for-pound (P4P) status. UFC CEO Dana White has consistently rated the heavyweight champion above everyone else on the roster. Due to his recent performances, many believe โPoatanโ deserves a higher ranking than Jones. Despite this intense rivalry, the two maintain a strong camaraderie. In fact, Pereira is open to training with Jones.
Over the years, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion has demonstrated exceptional MMA skills, solidifying his dominance in the promotion. Because of this, many within the organization respect Jones as a fighter. Similarly, Pereira admires him and hopes to have a training session with him someday.
Alex Pereira talks meeting with Jon Jones at #NocheUFC and says he’s going to train with him for his upcoming fight against Stipe Miocic ๐
“I don’t know if I’ll be able to share the cage with [Jon Jones] but at least I want to get the experience of training with him.”
๐ฅโฆ pic.twitter.com/1zfTnyDXHs
โ Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) September 15, 2024
Interestingly, Jones isnโt the first UFC fighter with whom Pereira has expressed a desire to train and learn new skills. Currently, he trains with one of his former rivals, Sean Strickland. This aspect of Pereiraโs approach highlights his ongoing commitment to improving his skill set in the sport.