Shavkat Rakhmonov and Alex Pereira are two of the most terrifying fighters on the current UFC roster. Despite their short UFC careers, both have rapidly risen to prominence, amassing millions of followers along the way. Known for their dynamic finishing ability and composed personalities, they share several traits that set them apart as very similar.
Shavkat Rakhmonov currently represents Kill Cliff FC where he trains with middleweight UFC star Gregory Rodrigues. In a recent interview, the middleweight contender talked about the Rakhmonov mindset going into fights. He also shared his experience about training with the UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.
I think both of them have the mentality like very strong and put it there inside the octagon and they get back results. So, I’m so glad to spend good time with Alex and Shavkat. They are animals.
Gregory Rodrigues via Sherdog.com
Rodrigues revealed that leading up to UFC 310, Shavkat Rakhmonov was unaware of his opponent and seemed confused. Adding to the challenge, Rakhmonov was dealing with an MCL injury that significantly impacted his performance against Ian Garry. Unlike his usual dominant finishes, the fight went the distance, but Rakhmonov still managed to secure a unanimous decision victory.
While talking about Alex Pereira, Rodrigues pointed out the Brazilian’s fearless approach to his opponents. According to the fighter, ‘Poatan’ never backs out of challenges and isn’t scared of losing. This might be the reason for Pereira’s incredible consistency and fighting three opponents in a single year.
UFC Hall of Famer talks about Alex Pereira’s future
Alex Pereira successfully defended his light heavyweight title three times this year against tough opponents. On top of that, he managed to knock out all of them in a spectacular manner. This has put him in the race for the UFC Fighter of the Year race against the featherweight champion Ilia Topuria.
Alex Pereira’s future fight (via Imago)Currently, the fans are eager to see Alex Pereira fight the top light heavyweight candidate Magomed Ankalaev in the future. UFC legend Chael Sonnen recently talked about this on his YouTube channel. However, he had some reservations about this potential matchup.
I do not believe that Ankalaev will compete again and it is not to be for a world title. What I’m not as confident in telling you is that he will be fighting Alex Pereira for the world title.
Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel
Sonnen believes that there is some behind-the-scenes planning going on for Pereira’s future that doesn’t include Ankalaev. Currently, Pereira is enjoying his Christmas vacation with his family and there has been no official announcement. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see what’s next for the light heavyweight champion.
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