Alex Pereira shows off improved grappling and judo in training ahead of title defence against Khalil Rountree at UFC 307
Alex Pereira was seen working on his grappling skills ahead of UFC 307.
In November 2021, Pereira made his UFC debut after ending his legendary tenure with Glory Kickboxing. The former world champion had high expectations in the middleweight division, but he needed to prove his grappling wouldn't be a problem.
Since then, 'Poatan' has evolved into one of the greatest fighters of all time in only nine UFC appearances. The reigning light heavyweight king, who previously held the middleweight strap, holds wins against five former world champions - Sean Strickland, Israel Adesanya, Jan Blachowicz, Jiri Prochazka, and Jamahal Hill.
Along the way, several opponents have attempted to expose Pereira's lack of grappling experience without much success. The Brazilian's next challenge will take place on Oct. 5 when he defends his light heavyweight throne against Khalil Rountree Jr in the UFC 307 main event.
Pereira recently shared a video of him working on his grappling skills, which was re-posted by 'Home of Fight' on X:
The reality is Alex Pereira likely won't need to utilize his takedown defense much against Khalil Rountree Jr. The 34-year-old has fought inside the octagon on 15 occasions and never secured a takedown. He also doesn't have a submission win in his 18-fight professional MMA career.
Why is Khalil Rountree Jr fighting Alex Pereira instead of Magomed Ankalaev?
Khalil Rountree Jr is the number eight-ranked UFC light heavyweight. Yet, he will fight for Alex Pereira's world title after five consecutive wins, four by KO/TKO, including a third-round finish against Anthony Smith last time out.
Many fans have questioned why number two-ranked Magomed Ankalaev, who is riding an 11-fight unbeaten streak, wasn't given the opportunity. Instead, the well-rounded Russian contender is scheduled to face number five-ranked Aleksandar Rakic on Oct. 26 at UFC 308, which goes down in Abu Dhabi.
Dana White claimed timing and availability were a significant reason that Rountree is fighting Pereira instead of Ankalaev. Furthermore, other potential factors are Rountree's fan-friendly fighting style matching up perfectly with Pereira and Ankalaev being fan favorite in Abu Dhabi.
Nonetheless, Ankalaev won't be denied a title shot if he defeats Rakic at UFC 308.