The Topic of which fighters rank amongst the Greatest of All Time is a popular, yet sometimes contentious debate.
Where there are regulars in the conversation such as Jon Jones, Georges St. Pierre and Amanda Nunes to name some examples, the legacy being built by one Alex Pereira undoubtedly inserts him into the discussion.
After an emphatic Light Heavyweight title defence against a game Khalil Rountree JR. At UFC 307, the MMA world is eager to see what is next for the former UFC Middleweight champion.
Pereira’s rampant run continues
Pereira’s most recent success in the octagon saw him complete three title defences in just 175 days – a feat which broke the previous record of as many defences in 189 days by Ronda Rousey.
The 37-year-old also extended to an unbeaten 5-0 at light heavyweight since moving up to the weight class from middleweight in July 2023.
If fans were not aware of the devastating striking ability at Pereira’s disposal from his Glory Kickboxing days, they have certainly been treated to it since his move to the leading MMA promotion. This was a move which saw “Poatan” secure double-champ status across two divisions in just seven bouts.
His captivation of the MMA world and the accomplishments acquired in a relatively short amount of time are astounding and may lead some to consider him amongst the best ever.
Talking in ESPN MMA’s UFC 307 post-show, Chael Sonnen expressed his belief that Pereira has a rightful claim to be considered amongst the best.
“He is extremely one dimensional for a GOAT” Sonnen said.
“There’s no groundwork, there’s never been a takedown, there’s never a defensive submission, there’s never been a submission thrown up and he might just be the GOAT.”
Another Light Heavyweight Clash On the Cards?
‘The American Gangster’s’ comments, whilst establishing the validity of considering the Brazilian Superstar amongst the best, also highlighted areas where fans may have their doubts.
The flip side would argue Pereira has had favourable matchups in his run in the sense that he is yet to be tested by an elite level grappler which, in theory, favours his striking background.
Many fans felt that No.2 ranked light-heavyweight Ankalaev should have been stood across from Pereira in Salt Lake City at UFC 307.
The Russian could pose a threat to Pereira’s current reign with his well-rounded game. However, for a shot at light heavyweight gold to materialise, Ankalaev must overcome Aleksander Rakic at UFC 308 on October 26.
A Potential Super Fight at Heavyweight?
Pereira seemingly shot down a return to middleweight for the foreseeable as training partner Sean Strickland is set to contest champ Dricus Du Plessis for middleweight gold in a rematch.
If the former Glory Kickboxing champion decides not to stay put, there is potential for a history-making move up to the heavyweight division where Pereira could attempt to become the first three-division world champion.
A recent Instagram post from the Brazilian seemed to point toward the possibility of such a move with Interim Heavyweight Champion, Tom Aspinall, the subject of the image posted.
The thought of Pereira making the step up to heavyweight in search of gold in a third division is an undeniably enticing one. And if successful, Pereira may just be considered the greatest of all time if there were any doubts before.