UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira recently hinted at the possibility of a return to the middleweight division, where he once reigned supreme. This bold move provoked a wave of reaction from the MMA world, with a stern warning from current #3 ranked middleweight contender Robert Whittaker who is known for his rigorous research and experience, Whittaker expressed doubts if strong showing on Pereira’s ability to win down to 185 pounds
Whittaker Warns Pereira that du Plessis is Not Easy to Attack
In an interview with Submission Radio, Whittaker didn’t hold back his concerns about Pereira’s potential move. He explained that while moving up to a higher weight class is usually less taxing, moving back down can be very difficult, especially when you have competed in a heavy division season long afterwards. “I don’t think that’s a good fight for him,” Whittaker said, clearly skeptical of Pereira’s decision. Cutting weight and moving back to middleweight would be a painful process, he added, and could cost Pereira dearly.
Whittaker also points to the dangerous challenge that rising star Dricus du Plessis in the middleweight division poses to Pereira. “Alex is hurt, okay? And Dricus loves surprises,” Whittaker said. He highlighted how du Plessis showed his strength against Israel Adesanya, a fighter known for his flexibility. According to Whittaker, du Plessis’ relentless pressing in front of him and his ability to strike could spell trouble for Pereira, who is known for his devastation in his clashes.
Du Plessis and Strickland Echo Whittaker’s Concerns
The warnings didn’t stop with Whittaker. Dricus du Plessis himself has been very vocal about the dangers of facing Pereira again at middleweight. Du Plessis didn’t mince words when Pereira hinted at a possible showdown, suggesting the Brazilian should think twice before going to the Octagon with him as Adesanya managed to knock Pereira out Du Plessis, known for his grasping prowess, believes in his style would be a nightmare for Pereira, His punches are his main weapon.
At the press conference, du Plessis rekindled the flames: “I really don’t think Alex Pereira should go down to 185. If he wants to, all the better. But then we will hear excuses.” Pereira seemed offended by the comment, and quickly replied that she never accepted any excuses for her weight loss. Reminding everyone that he has been able to get down to 178 pounds many times and can do it again, and given enough time to recover, Pereira also rebounded with du Plessis.
Adding to the troubled band, UFC middleweight Sean Strickland offered a different perspective. He suggested that if du Plessis really wants to test himself against Pereira, he should consider moving up to 205 pounds.According to Strickland, this would be the best way to ensure a fair fight it was exciting, which fans will eagerly anticipate.
Pereira’s Cofidence in Criticism
Despite mounting warnings and criticism, Alex Pereira is still not giving up. His belief that he can cut the middleweight division and compete at the highest level is unwavering. He believes that with proper preparation, he can return to 185 pounds and reclaim his dominance in the division. Despite the odds, Pereira’s determination to face du Plessis underscores his fighter spirit and desire to cement his legacy in the UFC.
