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Thursday, 29 October 2026Thu 29 Oct 20262:22 AM · 2thesports.com Updated 02:17
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MMA

Alex Pereira keeps light heavyweight return option open

UFC star Alex Pereira has addressed his future plans and current division status during a recent media appearance.

UFC fighter Alex Pereira has suggested that a return to the light heavyweight division remains a possibility for his future career. The Brazilian athlete addressed his current status and potential future matchups during an appearance on the Uncrowned show on Wednesday.

Pereira, who has frequently been the subject of speculation regarding his weight class movements, discussed his mindset as he prepares for his upcoming bout against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335. The fighter remains focused on his current challenges while evaluating his long-term trajectory.

During the interview, Pereira also addressed comments from Magomed Ankalaev, who has claimed that the Brazilian moved away from the light heavyweight division to avoid a potential encounter. Pereira dismissed these suggestions while maintaining his focus on his immediate professional obligations.

The conversation also touched upon Pereira's previous experiences in the octagon, specifically his past fight against Ciryl Gane. Pereira expressed his frustrations regarding that encounter, alleging that Gane utilized illegal strikes during their contest, a point he continues to emphasize.

Regarding the heavyweight division landscape, Pereira offered his perspective on the upcoming matchup between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit. He shared his belief that Gane holds the advantage in that specific contest, despite his personal history with the fighter.

Pereira also provided insight into the scheduling process for his upcoming fight against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335. He explained the circumstances that led to the matchup, highlighting the strategic decisions made by his team and the promotion regarding his career path.

The fighter addressed rumours concerning a potential high-profile bout against Jon Jones. He clarified whether such a contest was ever close to being finalised for a major event, providing context on the negotiations that often surround marquee UFC matchups.

As he prepares for his next appearance, Pereira remains one of the most discussed figures in mixed martial arts. His ability to compete across different weight classes has defined his recent tenure, drawing significant attention from fans and analysts alike.

The Brazilian's coach, Plinio Cruz, was also present during the discussion. Cruz, who recently secured a victory in Misfits Boxing, offered his support and perspective on the tactical preparations currently underway for Pereira's upcoming UFC assignment.

Pereira’s career has been marked by rapid success and a willingness to face top-tier opposition. His transition through the ranks of the UFC has seen him capture titles and headline major pay-per-view events, solidifying his status as a global combat sports star.

The upcoming UFC 335 event is highly anticipated, with Pereira's involvement against Pavlovich serving as a key focal point for the card. The matchup represents another significant test for Pereira as he continues to navigate the heavyweight landscape.

Despite the ongoing debates about his weight class, Pereira appears comfortable with his current trajectory. His openness to returning to light heavyweight suggests that he is keeping all strategic avenues available as he evaluates his future opponents.

The combat sports community continues to monitor Pereira's comments closely, given his influence on the sport's current hierarchy. His candid remarks regarding his rivals and his future goals provide a clear window into his competitive philosophy.

As the date for UFC 335 approaches, the focus will shift entirely to the physical preparation required for the bout. Pereira and his team are currently refining their strategy to ensure he is ready for the challenges posed by Pavlovich.

The broader context of the UFC heavyweight division remains competitive, with various contenders vying for position. Pereira's presence in this division adds a layer of intrigue, as fans remain curious about his long-term ceiling in the weight class.

Pereira's career record and his history of defeating established champions have earned him significant respect within the industry. His ability to adapt to new opponents and environments has been a hallmark of his professional journey thus far.

The discussion on Uncrowned also touched upon the broader state of combat sports, including recent developments in boxing and other promotions. Pereira’s insights reflect a deep understanding of the industry's evolving nature and his place within it.

With his focus now firmly on the upcoming fight, Pereira is looking to add another victory to his record. His performance at UFC 335 will likely dictate the next phase of his career and influence future discussions regarding his weight class.

The anticipation for his return to the cage is high, with supporters eager to see how he handles the power of Pavlovich. The outcome of this fight will be crucial for the rankings and the future direction of the heavyweight division.

As the event nears, further updates on the fight card and preparations are expected. For now, Pereira remains committed to his training regime, aiming to maintain his momentum in one of the most demanding sports in the world.

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Edited by sports journalist Muhammad Imran Khan, who has covered major international events for years.

Muhammad Imran Khan
EditorMuhammad Imran Khan

Sports journalist who has covered major international events. Every 2TheSports story is published under his editorial standards.