Two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo Kayla Harrison recently spoke about her admiration for UFC star Alex Pereira. Harrison took a moment backstage to acknowledge Pereira’s emerging judo skills earlier this year after both fighters scored big wins at UFC 300. Despite Pereira’s specialization in kickboxing, Harrison noticed there is something special in the lightweight leader.
Harrison, who made a strong impression in his UFC debut with his second-round submission of former bantamweight Holly Holm, didn’t reserve respect for Pereira, though Pereira had just defended his light heavyweight title with a knockout of former champion Jamahal the first Hill Instead, it was his budding judo skills.
“He was showing me his training videos and I couldn’t believe how quickly he was picking up judo techniques,” Harrison explained. “Because of his good looks, I even gave him a red belt as a joke. He took a foot sweep like a master judoka. It was like watching someone fall into a banana peel—effortless and perfect.”
Pereira’s MMA Trail
Pereira, known for his devastating striking power, has taken the UFC by storm since joining in 2021. With titles in two weight classes, multiple headline events, and Fighter of the Year honors in 2022, he has become one of MMA superstars of decorated kickboxing -His transition from career to dominant force in mixed martial arts is hardly surprising.
Reflecting on Pereira’s journey, Harrison couldn’t hide his admiration for him. “He’s living a good life, isn’t he? He doesn’t even need English — his presence, his attitude, just shines through. That’s what makes a superstar. You can feel its light. It’s not just charisma; It’s something more than that.”
Overcoming suffering
Harrison also spoke about Pereira’s personal journey, highlighting his perseverance and determination. Pereira’s rise in MMA is even more impressive considering his struggles behind the cage. “When you hear her story — how she battled alcoholism and turned her life around through competition — it’s inspiring. It’s a badass of a badass. I just love watching it.”
What’s next for Pereira?
After his recent victory at UFC 303, where he knocked out Jiri Prochazka in a 205-pound title rematch, Pereira hinted at even bigger challenges ahead and talked about how open he is to defending his title ban against lightweight champion Magomed Ankalayev or possibly move up to heavyweight. The prospect of becoming the first tri-division champion in UFC history is within Pereira’s reach now, adding further excitement to his already legendary career
Honorary Harrison-Pereira
For Harrison, who has seen countless fighters come and go in his decorated career, Pereira stands out. “He has that thing, that star quality. Even if he doesn’t speak the language, people like him. His story, his skills, his journey — everything is amazing. I’m just happy for him.”
As Pereira continues to dominate the UFC, the world will be watching closely to see what he does next. Whether he stays at light heavyweight or makes history by moving up to heavyweight, one thing is clear: Pereira’s star is rising, and his rapidly changing new skills, such as judo, are another why he became a fighter to watch.
