In a recent turn of events, former UFC light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith has responded to Alex Pereira’s surprise grappling match challenge. The challenge, which Pereira issued via social media, caught the attention of the MMA world, and Smith had some interesting words to say about it.
“I mean, I would [do it]. But do you think he would? Not a chance, not a chance,” Smith remarked during an interview on The MMA Hour. While Smith expressed his willingness to take on Pereira in a grappling match, he appeared skeptical about Pereira’s seriousness, suggesting that it might just be a ploy to generate buzz in the media.
Smith went on to state, “I would grapple him in my front yard right now. It doesn’t matter. I would smoke him in a grappling match.” However, he questioned why Pereira wasn’t directing his trash talk toward Jiri Prochazka, a top contender in the division. Smith believed that Pereira should focus on opponents who could potentially lead him to a title shot.
Send location. https://t.co/mAkYBtS6fw
— Anthony Smith (@lionheartasmith) August 31, 2023
The feud between Smith and Pereira began when Smith made comments about Pereira’s transition to the light heavyweight division during a media day interview. Smith, while complimentary of Pereira’s performance against Jan Blachowicz, remarked that Pereira didn’t have the same physical advantage at 205 pounds. Pereira responded with harsh words, calling Smith a washed-up veteran.
Reflecting on the feud, Smith admitted, “I don’t know, man. I don’t get it.” He suggested that Pereira might be playing a character for the media and that there might have been a misunderstanding in translation regarding his comments.
Despite their ongoing feud, both fighters have their own UFC futures to consider. Smith is eyeing a return to the octagon, possibly against Jan Blachowicz, who named him as a potential opponent. Pereira, on the other hand, is expected to face Jiri Prochazka for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title later this year.
When asked about his prediction for the title fight, Smith leaned towards Pereira. He noted that Jiri Prochazka, while talented, tends to be hittable in fights, and Pereira’s striking prowess could pose a significant challenge.
In the world of MMA, where words and challenges are often thrown around, the feud between Anthony Smith and Alex Pereira continues to captivate fans and pundits alike. As the fighters focus on their respective careers, the possibility of a grappling match between the two remains an intriguing prospect.
