Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, has expressed his desire to move up to the heavyweight division and make history by becoming the first fighter to hold titles in all three weight classes. However, UFC CEO Dana White is adamantly opposed to the idea, at least for now. Despite Pereira’s wishes, his future appears to be around 205 pounds for the foreseeable future.
Fantastic Advice from Sonnen
Former UFC star and analyst Chael Sonnen has an unconventional suggestion for Pereira. Sonnen believes the best way for Pereira to convince Dana White to allow him into his heavyweight championship is to lose his current title. Speaking on his ESPN MMA show with Daniel Cormier, Sonnen elaborated on his reasoning.
To Move up After Failure
Sonnen pointed out that Pereira’s move to light heavyweight came after he lost his middleweight title to Israel Adesanya. After that defeat, Pereira decided to move up, thanks to the weight-cutting fatigue needed to make it to 185 pounds. Sonnen believes that had Pereira not lost to Adesanya, Dana White would have easily supported the light heavyweight title. So Sonnen believes that losing 205 pounds could pave the way for Pereira to step into the heavyweight division.
Next challenge: Ankalayev
According to Sonnen, Pereira’s next opponent could be #2 ranked lightweight Magomed Ankalayev. Ankalayev, who fought to a draw in his previous title fight, represents a significant challenge for Pereira. Sonnen sees this matchup as an opportunity for Pereira to solidify his dominance at 205 pounds or build a strong case to move up to heavyweight if he loses.
Dealing with Anxiety
Ankalaev is known for his hitting but also his ability to wrestle well. This poses a potential threat to Pereira, who has shown weakness on the ground despite recently earning a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Many UFC fans mistakenly believe that Anklev is primarily a grappler due to his Dagestan heritage, but he loves to endure fights. Against Pereira, however, Ankalayev can use his grappling skills, potentially weakening Pereira’s ground game.
The Views of the Scholars
Sonnen also revealed that some pundits do not want to see Pereira face Anklayev because of the potential loss. They want Pereira to move up to heavyweight to avoid a challenge. But Sonnen insists that will only be possible if Pereira clears the lighter division first.
Written by Dana White
Dana White has made his expectations for Pereira clear. He wants the Brazilian champion to dominate the lightweight division before he even considers moving to heavyweight. Given Pereira’s age—he’s already 37—time is not on his side. Many fear that if Pereira continues to focus on his 205-pound title defense, he may not get a chance to compete at heavyweight.
The Sonnen Solution
Sonnen’s solution, while controversial, is based on business acumen. He believes the strategic disadvantage could help Pereira by easing his move to become the heavyweight of his choice. While this perspective is unconventional, it highlights the complexity of the UFC’s weight class dynamics and the tactics fighters must figure out to achieve their goals.
