Alex Pereira and Oleksandr Usyk gets challenged in bizarre callout by former UFC fighter: "My hands demand respect"
In a move that has raised eyebrows, former UFC welterweight contender Mike Perry has challenged current UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and reigning boxing heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Perry took to his social media platform to declare:
"Man oh man, sparred today, feeling really strong, very heavy 👌🏼, if I were to call out any fighters for a match, @AlexPereiraUFC or @usykaa would be fun fights ! I’m telling yall, my hands demand respect 🦾"
Check out Mike Perry's post below:
The callout is peculiar for two reasons. Firstly, Pereira fights in the light-heavyweight division of the UFC, a weight class significantly lower than Perry's weight class. Secondly, Usyk is a boxer, not a UFC fighter, making a potential matchup between the two logistically impossible under current circumstances.
This isn't the first time Perry has made headlines for his social media activity. Known for his outspoken personality, Perry has previously called out fighters across weight classes and promotions. However, this latest challenge seems to be a bridge too far for 'Platinum'.
Perry is currently gearing up for a professional boxing match against social media star Jake Paul on June 20, 2024.
Meanwhile, Pereira is preparing for his UFC light-heavyweight title against Jiří Procházka in a highly anticipated rematch scheduled for June 29. Usyk, fresh off his undisputed heavyweight championship victory over Tyson Fury in May, is scheduled for a rematch with the 'Gypsy King' on December 21, 2024.
Alex Pereira targets December return after UFC 303 title defense
Alex Pereira has his sights set on a return to the octagon before the end of 2024. Despite taking a short-notice fight against Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303, Pereira revealed plans for another bout later this year, potentially in November or December:
"Got to focus on this fight. I don't know what will happen after. But I also want to rest a little. I have time to fight till the end of the year. Till December. November [or] December. Who knows, [maybe] in Madison Square Garden. A spot where I feel very good at... [After locking in UFC 303] Now It's possible. I put in my head that I can do it because I have time for it."
Check out Alex Pereira's comments below: