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Famed coach worries about Alex Pereira handling heavyweight power

UFC heavyweight contender Alex Pereira faces mounting concerns about his ability to handle the physical demands of the division after announcing he will remain at 265 pounds for his next fight. The Brazilian will take on knockout-prone Sergei Pavlovich in a five-round co-main event at UFC 335 on December 12, a bout that could reshape the heavyweight title picture.

While Pereira has previously excelled at lighter weights, including stints as light heavyweight and middleweight champion, his return to heavyweight action has drawn skepticism from MMA legends and analysts alike. Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier has even advised Pereira to reconsider his weight class, warning that his best work may lie at 205 pounds.

Meanwhile, Hall of Famer Michael Bisping has openly questioned whether Pereira’s future in the UFC hinges on his performance against Pavlovich, calling his current approach ‘flat-footed’ and potentially career-threatening. The fight, set to take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, will test Pereira’s endurance and adaptability in a division known for its explosive power and size advantage.

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