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Tag: Alex Pereira

  • PFL Star Picks Khalil Rountree To Finish Alex Pereira In The First Round At UFC 307

    PFL Star Picks Khalil Rountree To Finish Alex Pereira In The First Round At UFC 307

    A PFL star has boldly predicted that Khalil Rountree will make quick work of Alex Pereira in their upcoming title showdown at UFC 307.

    Rountree is slated to face reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Pereira this Saturday night in the main event of a highly anticipated pay-per-view at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    “Poatan” has been on a dominant, unbeaten tear in the 205-pound division, and he’s gearing up for his third title defense of 2024. His most recent conquest came in June at UFC 303, where he secured a thunderous second-round knockout of Jiri Prochazka in their rematch.

    Meanwhile, UFC 307 marks “The War Horse’s” maiden shot at UFC gold, which explains why he’s entering the bout as a heavy underdog. Unlike most title challengers, he hasn’t battled his way to the top or earned the number one contender spot, as he’s currently ranked #8 in the light heavyweight division.

    However, Brendan Loughnane stands among the select few who argue that Rountree’s underdog status could be the pivotal factor in pulling off a monumental upset against the seemingly unstoppable Pereira…

    Loughnane On Rountree’s Chances Against Pereira At UFC 307: ‘He’s Hungry’

    During a recent appearance on talkSPORT MMA, Loughnane shared his predictions for the Pereira vs. Rountree title fight. While the 34-year-old Englishman acknowledged the reigning champion’s formidable strengths, he emphasized that this bout represents a crucial opportunity—possibly the sole title shot—for “The War Horse”.

    The PFL featherweight fighter expressed that this realization will likely drive Rountree to fight with determination, and he might finish the bout in the first round.

    “I’m going to pick the [under]dog in this one,” Loughnane said. “I’m going to go for it. You know why? He’s hungry. He’s been around a long time; this is probably his last opportunity with age creeping up. Alex Pereira’s been an animal, but Khalil—I know him; I have trained with him. Khalil is a good fella; he’s a great fighter… Let’s just really go with it.”

    Rountree is poised to make his comeback following a 4.5-month suspension for testing positive for a steroid hormone this past May, and he’s currently carrying the momentum of a five-fight win streak. The 34-year-old Californian’s last Octagon outing saw him secure a third-round knockout victory against Anthony Smith in December 2023.

  • Israel Adesanya Gives ‘Dumb Game Plan’ Advice For Khalil Rountree Ahead Of UFC 307: ‘It’s a Matter Of Time Because You’re Drowning’

    Israel Adesanya Gives ‘Dumb Game Plan’ Advice For Khalil Rountree Ahead Of UFC 307: ‘It’s a Matter Of Time Because You’re Drowning’

    Khalil Rountree has got a tough task ahead of him at UFC 307 where he will be walking into the biggest fight of his career.

    The #8-ranked light heavyweight contender will be challenging Alex Pereira for the title in Salt Lake City.

    Rountree’s striking has proven to be very dangerous, but implementing that against someone as technical as the former two-weight GLORY kickboxing world champion will not be easy.

    One man knows about facing Pereira better than anyone else and he had some thoughts to pass onto the challenger ahead of Saturday night.

    Israel Adesanya Lays Out Flawed Game Plan For Khalil Rountree

    During his UFC 307 predictions on his YouTube channel, Israel Adesanya spoke about how Rountree can win this fight.

    “The Last Stylebender” has faced off with “Poatan” twice in kickboxing and twice in MMA, winning their last encounter at UFC 287 via knockout.

    He said that Rountree’s best route to victory is getting it done early before Pereira can start to break him down and set traps.

    However, Adesanya then corrected his own point by stating that being overly aggressive against Pereira can also play into the Brazilian’s hands.

    If Rountree is to take one piece of advice from this, it’s to back his opponent up to avoid what the former two-time UFC middleweight champion describes as “drowning”.

    “Khalil has to just go at him, can’t be scared, just press him back. You can, it’s possible, press him back. Watch out for the low kicks cuz that’s what he’s gonna use to stop him… Khalil attack the body, attack the legs too cuz Pereira will take them but he doesn’t get affected by them till later, much later. If Khalil is gonna win, he’s gonna have to win or try and win early but that’s a dumb game plan so don’t listen to me. Don’t try and win early cuz that’s how you get caught as well with Pereira. He can catch him with anything. Catch him with hook coming in, knee, leg kicks and then eventually, when you feel like the third one, you’re like, ‘Oh s***,’ then I can’t press him back anymore. Then it’s like a matter of time as you’re drowning.”

    Adesanya would, however, go on to pick Alex Pereira to win the fight at UFC 307, in his official predictions.

    Read also: Alex Pereira On Chances Of Ex-Kickboxing Foe Finding UFC Success: ‘They Are Not Me, They Are Not Adesanya’

  • Israel Adesanya Believes Alex Pereira Will Finish Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Israel Adesanya Believes Alex Pereira Will Finish Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Israel Adesanya will pay close attention to the fight that will see Alex Pereira put his UFC light heavyweight title on the line in the headliner of this Saturday’s UFC 307 pay-per-view event against Khalil Rountree from Salt Lake City.

    Adesanya knows firsthand what it’s like to fight Pereira and how good he is. They’ve fought a combined four times – two kickboxing and two MMA bouts. Adesanya raised his hand after scoring a KO win at UFC 287. 

    While appearing on The Adam Carolla Show (H/T to MMAJunkie.com), Adesanya broke down the fight and noted that Rountree’s approach has not been successful. 

    “I’ll go Pereira because of momentum right now,” Adesanya said.” “Rountree doesn’t grapple. He likes to kickbox. He’s never gone for a takedown. If you’re going to do that with Pereira – I’m the only one who’s ever even rocked him or like stood with him in the UFC. Everyone else, he’s washed. Rountree, if he can make it dirty and catch him, he can catch him, but it’s so hard to do it to Pereira.”

    Adesanya’s Prediction For UFC 307 Main Event

    According to Adesanya, Rountree will face difficulty in closing the distance against Pereira and could absorb damage as a result.

    “Rountree, his reach may not be able to get to him. Pereira likes to use his long reach to frame. … This weekend I’m going to go Pereira, and I’m going to go TKO or KO. I don’t know what round, but I just feel like it’ll be hard for Rountree. Leg kicks, leg kicks, and he might catch him as Rountree comes in because Rountree is going to be attacking him.”

  • Alex Pereira On Chances Of Ex-Kickboxing Foe Finding UFC Success: ‘They Are Not Me, They Are Not Adesanya’

    Alex Pereira On Chances Of Ex-Kickboxing Foe Finding UFC Success: ‘They Are Not Me, They Are Not Adesanya’

    UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira is seemingly not concerned about the arrival of a fighter who boasts a win over him in kickboxing to the Octagon.

    “Poatan” has already achieved immense success on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage, capturing gold at both 185 and 205 pounds. Those achievements were, in part, made possible due to the ready-made storyline that many believe fast-tracked him to the top.

    The Brazilian arrived in the UFC with a reputation largely centering around his two wins over Israel Adesanya in the striking-only realm. After just three fights, he was placed opposite the Nigerian-New Zealander and unseated him from the middleweight throne.

    Now, Pereira is on the opposite side of such a story.

    In his final kickboxing bout before committing to MMA, the former two-weight Glory champion was outpointed by Artem Vakhitov months on from his own narrow decision victory over the Russian.

    Vakhitov has also since transitioned to the cage, and he recently began his pursuit of a combat sports trilogy with Pereira by taking aim at his skillset.

    The former Glory titleholder will have the chance to move closer to setting up a showdown with “Poatan” in the Octagon when he shoots for a UFC contract on Dana White’s Contender Series next week.

    Pereira, however, isn’t optimistic about the chances of Vakhitov and other kickboxers being able to recreate his story with Adesanya…

    Pereira Gives Dismissive Response To Vakhitov’s MMA Arrival

    During his appearance at UFC 307 media day on Wednesday, Pereira was asked to comment on Vakhitov’s transition to MMA and pursuit of the kind of success he’s achieved in the sport.

    While the Russian has appeared confident about making a quick rise and exposing the current light heavyweight kingpin, Pereira believes Vakhitov to be “mistaken” when it comes to the difficulty that awaits him at the highest level of MMA.

    “I stopped following kickboxing, so I kind of don’t know how he’s (Vakhitov) doing,” Pereira said. “So I don’t know what his potential (is), but I think fighting me in the UFC at this point could be hard.

    “People get mistaken sometimes (and) think that it’s just easy to make a story like Israel Adesanya. Guys that beat me (in) a fight like, long ago, they think that they (can) just come here and make the same story,” Pereira continued. “Bro, they are not me, they are not Israel Adesanya.”

    While Vakhitov has plenty to do before reaching the same conversation as Pereira in the UFC, starting with earning an actual contract next week, “Poatan” showed how quick of a rise up the ladder is possible with a good storyline and some violent knockouts.

  • Khalil Rountree Names What He Brings To The Table Different To Alex Pereira’s Former Opponents

    Khalil Rountree Names What He Brings To The Table Different To Alex Pereira’s Former Opponents

    Khalil Rountree comes into his first UFC title shot as a pretty sizable underdog at UFC 307, this weekend.

    In what will be his 15th time stepping inside the Octagon, he will challenge Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title in Salt Lake City.

    A big reason why a lot of people believe that “Poatan” will retain his title on Saturday night is the style that his next challenger brings to the table.

    The #8-ranked contender finds himself in position for a title shot because he’s able to produce devastating knockouts with his striking skills which, ultimately, makes him an ideal match-up for Pereira because of his elite kickboxing background.

    Khalil Rountree Says That His Belief And Overall Ability As A Fighter Sets Him Apart

    Only Israel Adesanya has been able to defeat Pereira since the Brazilian entered the UFC and he did that whilst striking with “Poatan”.

    That being said, it’s hard for many to imagine Rountree out-striking the champion because though he’s very dangerous, he doesn’t have the same extensive kickboxing pedigree of either Adesanya or Pereira.

    In fact, the challenger believes that rather than his striking being better than the champion’s, it’s his overall ability as a fighter and current self-belief that makes him different to Pereira’s previous opponents.

    He is confident that this is the right time and place for him to capitalize on this opportunity, as he spoke about in a recent interview with ESPN MMA on fight-week.

    “It’s a little bit difficult for me to say this but I’m going to do this because I should. What makes me different is my overall ability compared to the guys that he’s fought. I feel like my strength and my athletic ability and my discipline, my skills, my experience, I think that like all of that kind of plays into me and my style and I don’t think that there’s been a fighter that is as like put together as I am and feel now.

    “I’ve been through a lot and I’ve spent my whole career in the UFC and this is the first time that like I can fully back myself. I don’t have to talk and yap and sometimes it’s uncomfortable for me to say, like I feel amazing. I am 100%, I have belief in myself and I don’t know who can present the same… the same stuff that I have right now. I don’t know, there’s just something that I feel in myself right now.”

    Read also: Kayla Harrison Brands Henry Cejudo ‘Asinine’ For Breakdown Of Ketlen Vieira Fight

  • Dana White Not Keen On Alex Pereira’s Boxing Talk: ‘I Want Everybody To Stay In Their Own Lane’ 

    Dana White Not Keen On Alex Pereira’s Boxing Talk: ‘I Want Everybody To Stay In Their Own Lane’ 

    Alex Pereira may have risen to star status in the UFC, but he’s still not at the level to convince Dana White that a crossover boxing match would be a good idea.

    Pereira is currently in Utah gearing up for his latest defense of the light heavyweight title, which headlines the UFC 307 pay-per-view at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center this Saturday night.

    But while his reign and dominance in the cage continues, the former middleweight kingpin has also had his eyes elsewhere in recent times.

    During an interview with Kevin Iole, “Poatan” commented on White’s recent revelation regarding a move into the boxing realm. The UFC CEO warned the sport that he’s coming in “guns blazing,” and it sounds like Pereira wants to be on the front lines.

    “Honestly, man, I feel very good about this (White’s boxing venture),” Pereira said. “I like boxing. I’ve wanted to fight boxing and I’ve been saying this for a while. In the next few days, I’m going to release video footage of me sparring the best heavyweight boxer in Brazil, it was a few years ago but I believe I am much better now.”

    He later reiterated that sentiment while speaking to The Schmo.

    “Absolutely I want to express my will to go boxing one day,” Pereira stated. “I think that this partnership of the UFC and boxing is a very good thing going for the sport.”

    Unfortunately for the Brazilian, it would appear that White is not convinced…

    White Once Again Shares ‘Hatred’ For Crossover Fights Amid Pereira’s Boxing Tease

    During a recent interview with Kevin Iole, White was asked for his take on Pereira’s ambitions in the ring and whether his planned entry into boxing promotion could lead to the Brazilian having his wish granted.

    “I don’t know. I mean, when you look at where he’s at right now in his career, he’s at the top of this game, he’s about to break (Ronda Rousey’s) record if he wins the fight on Saturday night, and God knows what other records he could break here,” White said. “He’s 38 years old, which is even more impressive when you add that on top of anything else.

    “I don’t know (about boxing). I’m not even thinking about that kind of stuff,” White continued. “I’m not thinking about crossover fights. I hate crossover fights. I respect the fact that he wants to do it. I know there’s tons of other fighters that probably want to do it. But I want everybody to stay in their own lane.”

    For now, Pereira has business to attend to inside the Octagon.

    And should he extend his reign beyond the threat of Rountree this weekend, a possible middleweight return to challenge Dricus du Plessis has been teased. Meanwhile, the likes of Magomed Ankalaev continue to push for a shot at his 205-pound gold, leaving “Poatan” with plenty of options in MMA.

  • Chael Sonnen: Khalil Rountree Won’t ‘Wilt’ To ‘Mike Tyson-esque Fear Factor’ Alex Pereira Has

    Chael Sonnen: Khalil Rountree Won’t ‘Wilt’ To ‘Mike Tyson-esque Fear Factor’ Alex Pereira Has

    Former UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen doesn’t think Khalil Rountree will be buying into the reputation that precedes Alex Pereira whenever he enters the Octagon.

    Rountree is days away from the biggest fight of his career to date, as he gears up to headline a pay-per-view and compete with gold on the line for the very first time at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    If “The War Horse” is to continue his winning form all the way to the light heavyweight throne, he’ll have to unseat Pereira. That’s a task that former champions Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka have both failed to achieve in 2024.

    Destructive performances against “Sweet Dreams” and “BJP” have only enhanced Pereira’s status as one of the promotion’s most feared knockout artists.

    But when it comes to how opponents handle such a reputation, Sonnen doesn’t expect Rountree to be one who “wilts” come fight night…

    Sonnen: Rountree A ‘Real Problem’ For Pereira

    During the latest episode of his Good Guy / Bad Guy show alongside Daniel Cormier on ESPN MMA’s YouTube channel, Sonnen reiterated his belief that an upset could be brewing in Salt Lake City.

    In part, that’s down to the mindset of Rountree. According to “The American Gangster,” the challenger won’t crumble to the “fear factor” Pereira has developed in the way that others in the division would.

    “I’m telling you, Daniel, every upset has a couple of commonalities. This fight, you’ve got to keep your eyes on it,” Sonnen said. “Number one battle Khalil’s got is to show up and fight. Pereira’s gonna get to a point where guys don’t do that.

    “Pereira is entering that Mike Tyson-esque fear factor, where guys are going to wilt in the back. I just don’t believe that’s Khalil,” Sonnen continued. “I think Khalil’s got one more good one in him. I think he can overcome this, and I think he is a real problem for Pereira.”

    Rountree’s history of violent knockouts may also have created a “fear factor” behind his own striking game. And that might especially be the case for kickboxing standouts given “The War Horse’s” habit of stalling their charges inside the cage.

    It remains to be seen whether history will repeat itself in that regard this Saturday.

  • Khalil Rountree Wants To Honor Murdered Father’s Name At UFC 307

    Khalil Rountree Wants To Honor Murdered Father’s Name At UFC 307

    Khalil Rountree Jr. recently shared his determination to pay tribute to his late father by securing a victory at UFC 307.

    “The War Horse” has a chance to bring his dreams to life as he prepares to challenge reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira this weekend at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    Rountree Jr. has been a fixture on the UFC roster since 2016, delivering numerous highlight-reel performances. However, many MMA fans may not be familiar with his personal journey. The Ultimate Fighter season 23 alum carries a legacy tied to his father, Roderick Khalil Rountree, who was a road manager for the iconic music group Boyz II Men.

    Tragically, in May 1992, when “The War Horse” was just two years old, his father was murdered by three armed robbers at the Gold Coast hotel in Chicago.

    The unfortunate demise of his father cast a shadow over Rountree Jr.’s early years, leading him down a dark path of substance abuse that nearly cost him his life. Struggling to cope, he seemed headed for self-destruction before discovering MMA, which became the key to turning his life around.

    Rountree Fights To Honor His Father & Sees UFC Title As Perfect Tribute

    During a recent interview with New York Post Sports, Rountree Jr., revealed that his path into fighting was driven by a deep need to pay tribute to his late father. The Californian expressed that this title shot is the culmination of a lifetime of hard work and dedication. He sees this opportunity as a moment to bring new honor to his family’s legacy, especially in memory of his father.

    “I think, for me, it’s everything that I’ve worked for, really. Not knowing my dad growing up, but knowing what happened to him,” Rountree Jr. said. “I always just wanted to — or, not always, but there came a time, especially when I started fighting, that I wanted to honor him and make something of myself so that I can imagine him looking down and being proud.”

    “Like ‘wow, my son was this kid that had no courage and locked himself inside his room’ to — ‘wow, this guy’s fighting lions in the cage for a world championship.’ So it’s really big, and I’m so excited for this moment and just to be able to be in this situation to bring more honor and more light to the work that my father did and also the work that I’ve put in.”

    “The War Horse” is currently on an impressive five-fight winning streak, with his last appearance in the Octagon being a third-round knockout of Anthony Smith in December 2023. Rountree Jr. faced a setback this past May when he was handed a 4.5-month ban after testing positive for a steroid hormone. However, the suspension was lifted on September 18.

    • Read More: Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307
  • ‘They Don’t Want One More Belt To Go To Dagestan’ – Fans React After Highlight Reel Disproves “Poatan” Calling Ankalaev ‘Boring’

    ‘They Don’t Want One More Belt To Go To Dagestan’ – Fans React After Highlight Reel Disproves “Poatan” Calling Ankalaev ‘Boring’

    The UFC light heavyweight title is on the line this weekend in UFC 307 but to the surprise of some fans, it will not be Magomed Ankalaev serving as the challenger.

    Instead, Alex Pereira will be defending his title against the #8-ranked Khalil Rountree in a clash of two of the division’s most exciting strikers.

    Though there’s an argument to be made for Rountree being more active and coming into the fight on a great run of finishes, many expected Ankalaev to be the one standing opposite Pereira at UFC 307.

    The #2-ranked contender is unbeaten since his UFC debut back in 2018 but will instead be facing Aleksandar Rakić later this month at UFC 308.

    Those who agree with the decision to book Rountree as the next challenger, instead, will often divert to the argument that Ankalaev isn’t the most exciting fighter to watch, a point that Pereira has also made in the past.

    MMA Fans React To Magomed Ankalaev’s Underrated UFC Highlight Reel

    A video posted on social media showcased some of Ankalaev’s finishes inside the Octagon as proof that he isn’t the boring fighter that Pereira has labelled him as.

    For a Russian contender that has a strong grappling game, he isn’t afraid to strike with his opponents and has always been a dangerous fighter on the feet.

    In fact, 10 of his 18 wins as a pro are by knockout with 6 coming in the UFC.

    The video shows some stellar finishes including his latest win over Johnny Walker and the front kick that he landed against Dalcha Lungiambula back in 2019.

    MMA fans reacted to the highlight reel on social media and the mislabeling of Ankalaev’s style as ‘boring’.

    “UFC is saving Pereira from Ankalaev .. more like they don’t want one more belt to go Dagestan ..!”

    “Honestly ankalaev is far from boring, not sure how that narrative got placed on him”

    https://twitter.com/blondedmma/status/1840825715786178940

    “Third most KO in LHW history, great striker who refuses to wrestle most of the time. Anyone who says he’s boring is just biased against DGestanis”

    “I think when people say boring, they’re referring to his personality. idk”

    “People see the beard and assume another Kahbib clone.”

    Read also: Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

  • Alex Pereira On Difference Between Past Fights & UFC 307: ‘Now I Understand This Game’ 

    Alex Pereira On Difference Between Past Fights & UFC 307: ‘Now I Understand This Game’ 

    He may have already achieved champion status in two UFC divisions and continues to rule over the light heavyweight class through two successful defenses, but Alex Pereira insists he is still continuing to evolve as a mixed martial artist.

    Since a brief reign at middleweight, Pereira has emphatically conquered some of the top names at 205 pounds. In four fights, “Poatan” has defeated three former champions in Jan Błachowicz, Jiří Procházka, and Jamahal Hill.

    And after successfully retaining possession of the belt on two occasions this year thus far, Pereira will return for his third defense at UFC 307 in Utah this weekend, where the challenge of Khalil Rountree awaits him.

    Having held titles in two weight classes and established himself as a top name toward the top of the pound-for-pound ladder, some would be forgiven for forgetting that Pereira is just 13 fights and four committed years into his MMA career.

    With that in mind, the Brazilian’s success has come alongside his continued growth in the sport. And as he approaches his latest outing in the cage, a further evolved “Poatan” is feeling better than ever.

    Pereira Touts ‘Significant Strides’ In UFC 307 Camp

    During episode one of the UFC 307 Embedded: Vlog Series, Pereira looked ahead to his third Octagon outing in quick succession.

    While he’s not had much time to breathe between defenses in 2024, the Brazilian kickboxing specialist and his team have still spoken highly about the progress made behind the scenes.

    And in that regard, “Poatan” has seemingly had his best camp to date.

    “This camp I’ve made significant strides in my overall progress and my preparation,” Pereira said. “Like I said to Glover, ‘Now I understand this game.’ And he replied, ‘I can see that.’ So it seems like something has clicked. I feel very confident and great.

    Pereira will look to show those improvements come fight night in the “Beehive State” this weekend, where yet another successful title defense in 2024 could leave his case for Fighter of the Year undeniable.

  • Former UFC Light Heavyweight Title Challenger Picks Between Alex Pereira & Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Former UFC Light Heavyweight Title Challenger Picks Between Alex Pereira & Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    The main event of UFC 307 sees the return of one of the biggest stars in the sport today, light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.

    “Poatan” has put on some incredible striking displays since moving up to 205-pounds and that’s sure to be the case once again in Salt Lake City this weekend.

    His challenger, Khalil Rountree, is also used to stopping his opponents with strikes when he steps inside the Octagon.

    We’re sure to get a high-level game of violent chess when these two ruthless fight finishers collide this Saturday night at the Delta Center.

    Volkan Oezdemir Backs Alex Pereira To Retain The Title This Weekend At UFC 307

    In a recent interview with Inside Fighting, former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir gave his quick thoughts on the main event match-up.

    Oezdemir fought for the title back in 2018, coming up short against Daniel Cormier after securing three big wins in the division to get a championship opportunity.

    “No Time” is currently ranked at #6 following back-to-back wins and could be back in the title picture if he’s able to stop the winning streak of Carlos Ulberg next month.

    He believes that the belt will stay with “Poatan” this weekend because he’s the more efficient and polished striker of the two.

    “I think Pereira for me is gonna take it. Rountree is dangerous but I think is a little bit too wild, you know, hooks and stuff. Pereira is more complete but it’s tough, it’s not going to go to the ground for sure. It’s going to be a war.”

    Oezdemir was also asked about Rountree’s game plan of standing and striking with Pereira, which he also believes makes the fight harder for the challenger.

    “Of course you want to go in the best department and I think the ground is the easiest way to take Alex Pereira.”

    Read also: Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

  • Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    According to Chael Sonnen, all boxes needed for a major upset are being ticked ahead of the UFC 307 main event.

    Mixed martial arts’ leading promotion is back in Utah this week to stage its latest pay-per-view from Salt Lake City’s Delta Center. Two championship clashes are set to headline, with light heavyweight kingpin Alex Pereira closing the show.

    Having defended his gold successfully against both Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka thus far this year, “Poatan’s” reign will next meet the threat of a surprise challenger in the #8-ranked Khalil Rountree.

    Many questioned the booking, suggesting the UFC avoided giving Magomed Ankalaev a deserved shot in order to keep Pereira’s ball rolling with another striking matchup.

    But for Sonnen, that line of thinking is among many reasons why he thinks an upset is “brewing” at UFC 307…

    Sonnen: Pereira vs. Rountree Has All The Makings Of An Upset

    During the latest episode of his Good Guy / Bad Guy show alongside Daniel Cormier on ESPN MMA’s YouTube channel, Sonnen looked ahead to the upcoming PPV main event in Utah.

    While Pereira will enter as a heavy favorite given his winning form in 2024 to date, “The American Gangster” suggested that some differences in the narratives leading up to his latest defense could present a major threat to his reign.

    “This fight card has the potential to be the one. You wanna know why, Daniel? It is brewing for an upset,” Sonnen said. “I’m not giving you a prediction, but I’m telling you now, everything that could be wrong for Pereira in terms of the commonalities that everyone that’s ever been upset has faced — finding yourself in a match that’s harder than the audience knows, finding yourself in a match that’s more dangerous than you’re aware, finding yourself in a match where this guy’s gonna play your game.

    “I’m not arguing that Khalil is cleaner or more talented of a kickboxer than Pereira,” Sonnen continued. “But I will argue for you, Pereira can hit you one time and put you down, Khalil only has to hit him one time and Khalil will put him down.”

    Rountree will be hoping that Sonnen is correct and those apparent pre-fight factors pave the way for his shock crowning in Salt Lake City this weekend.

  • Glover Teixeira Explains Addition Of Sean Strickland To Alex Pereira’s UFC 307 Camp 

    Glover Teixeira Explains Addition Of Sean Strickland To Alex Pereira’s UFC 307 Camp 

    UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira has been getting help from an ex-opponent and fellow former middleweight titleholder while in Utah for his upcoming defense.

    Pereira has returned to the “Beehive State” for the first time since his debut at 205 pounds in July 2023, which saw him get the better of Jan Błachowicz on the scorecards.

    Since then, “Poatan” has achieved two-division champ status and successfully defended the light heavyweight crown twice. And having violently stopped Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka this year, Pereira’s third assignment of 2024 headlines UFC 307 this weekend.

    The Brazilian looks set for another striking showdown, this time opposite a fellow knockout artist in Khalil Rountree. And to boost his chances of another victory, Pereira and his team have turned to Sean Strickland.

    Teixeira Touts Strickland’s Ability To Hang With Pereira In Training

    During a recent interview with The Schmo, Glover Teixeira was asked about the impact Strickland’s presence has as Pereira’s camp for UFC 307 comes to a close in Salt Lake City.

    While the American was emphatically flattened by Pereira when they shared the Octagon in 2022, Teixeira suggested that “Tarzan” is one of few who can go toe-to-toe with the former GLORY Kickboxing champ in sparring.

    “Sean is, you know, incredibly tough. He’s good everywhere. He’s a great mixed martial artist,” Teixeira said. “He knows how to train well, you know? And he’s a guy that can, to be honest, hang with Alex. Alex can push his pace a little more. We love that Sean (came) over here today and helped Alex.”

    Pereira will hope that his work with Strickland and the others who’ve been a part of his latest fight camp pays dividends on Saturday night, when “The War Horse” will have a monumental upset over the Brazilian standout in his sights.

  • UFC Legend Cites Potential Alex Pereira Weakness That Khalil Rountree Could Exploit: ‘Did Not Work For Him When He Fought Izzy…’

    UFC Legend Cites Potential Alex Pereira Weakness That Khalil Rountree Could Exploit: ‘Did Not Work For Him When He Fought Izzy…’

    Alex Pereira has become a superstar during his time in the UFC, where his elite kickboxing background has been put to devastating use.

    “Poatan” is one of the best strikers we have ever seen inside the Octagon and he’s delivered some incredible highlights in his run so far.

    In the third defense of his light heavyweight title at UFC 307 this weekend, he will face another powerful striker in Khalil Rountree.

    Many find it hard to imagine how Rountree will win a stand-up battle against the champion but there is one chink in Pereira’s armour that could cost him.

    Stephen Thompson Says Alex Pereira’s Aggression Could Be A Problem For Him At UFC 307

    In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Stephen Thompson spoke about Pereira’s unique approach to striking in MMA.

    “Wonderboy” will also be in action on Saturday night in Salt Lake City where you’re sure to see his wide range of kickboxing weapons on display against Joaquin Buckley.

    Rather than the evasive and dynamic style of Thompson, Pereira’s kickboxing approach is far more aggressive and on the front-foot.

    He doesn’t move around all that much and will usually stand right in front of his opponents.

    The champion is so powerful and confident in his ability to land his own shots that he doesn’t tend to move out of the way of his opponents’, when they launch something back his way.

    As it did in his MMA rematch with Israel Adesanya, Thompson questioned whether this could be dangerous for him against an opponent like Rountree.

    “It [the aggression] did not work for him when he fought Izzy, you know. That’s kind of the same thing that he got caught in was in that brawl and he was taking shots but he wasn’t evading any, he was still in the face trying to throw and he got clipped and he went down. I mean he relies a lot on his toughness, he’s a very durable fighter for a guy to be fighting so much but yeah man, that’s dangerous. If you get there with another striker, especially Khalil Rountree, Khalil Rountree is a powerful guy.”

    Read also: Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson Gives His Verdict On Dricus Du Plessis’ Striking: ‘No Real Good Technique…’

  • Alex Pereira Makes Charity Bet With Khalil Rountree Over UFC 307 No Takedown Promise

    Alex Pereira Makes Charity Bet With Khalil Rountree Over UFC 307 No Takedown Promise

    Khalil Rountree has made it clear that he intends to stand and strike with Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 307.

    The light heavyweight title challenger has won four of his last five fights via knockout, and is certainly capable of striking with anyone in the division.

    However, “Poatan” is a whole different beast when it comes to the stand-up game thanks to his incredible career in kickboxing before he made the switch to MMA.

    Rountree’s coach John Wood also stated that they intend to strike in Salt Lake City because that’s where they will get the best out of his student’s skill set, rather than trying to change his approach because of the opponent that’s in front of them.

    Pereira Says He Won’t Be Convinced Unless Rountree Puts His Money Where His Mouth Is

    Despite this clear statement from his opponent, Pereira isn’t convinced that Rountree will stick by his word once they meet inside the Octagon.

    The champion is so effective on the feet that even when he faces fellow strikers, they often divert to using grappling as a plan B.

    Pereira commented on this during a recent interview with Kevin Iole before fight week.

    Through his coach, Plinio Cruz, “Poatan” suggested a wager that would give him confidence in Rountree’s pre-fight assertion that he will keep the fight on the feet.

    “Honestly bro, everybody that said that [they will keep the fight standing] before ended up shooting a takedown on this guy so it’s hard to believe. Alex said that the only way that he’ll believe [is] if Khalil go out in public and say, ‘I promise, I promise that I’m not going to shoot a takedown on this guy and if I do, I’m going to donate a percentage of my purse for charity.’ Then Alex will believe him and say let’s bang.”

    Read also: Alex Pereira Rejects Blame For Magomed Ankalaev’s Title Wait: ‘Such A Boring Style Of Fighting…’

  • VIDEO: UFC 307 Countdown Episode Ahead Of Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree & Raquel Pennington vs. Julianna Peña

    VIDEO: UFC 307 Countdown Episode Ahead Of Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree & Raquel Pennington vs. Julianna Peña

    Fight week for the UFC 307 pay-per-view this Saturday night has kicked off with the release of the promotion’s latest Countdown episode.

    Under the spotlight in this edition is the headliner between Alex Pereira and Khalil Rountree and the co-main event between Raquel Pennington and Julianna Peña.

    Saturday’s lineup is topped by an intriguing championship clash, with light heavyweight kingpin Pereira (11-2) looking to add a third successful defense to his reign, which got underway with a victory over Jiří Procházka at UFC 295 in November 2023. He’s since retained possession of the belt by getting the better of Jamahal Hill at UFC 300 this past April and Procházka in their short-notice UFC 303 rematch.

    If “Poatan” is to continue his rule atop the 205-pound mountain, he must record a victory over Rountree (13-5, 1 NC). “The War Horse” will ride a five-fight win streak into his first title shot on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage, most notably getting the better of former championship challenger Anthony Smith in brutal fashion last time out.

    Before those two run it back in the main event at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center, one of three women’s titles in the UFC will be at stake.

    The women’s bantamweight gold will be contested by current champ Pennington (16-8) and former divisional queen Peña (11-5), as they settle a rivalry that began to brew during their time on The Ultimate Fighter season 18 in 2013. While “Rocky” will return eight months on from her capturing of the then-vacant strap, “The Venezuelan Vixen” is set to make the walk for the first time since losing the title in her rematch with Amanda Nunes over two years ago.

    Ahead of those two contests in Utah, fans can catch previews in the full episode of UFC 307 Countdown on the promotion’s YouTube channel.

    UFC 307 Countdown: Full Episode

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sETTkhCsqKI
  • Alex Pereira Rejects Blame For Magomed Ankalaev’s Title Wait: ‘Such A Boring Style Of Fighting…’

    Alex Pereira Rejects Blame For Magomed Ankalaev’s Title Wait: ‘Such A Boring Style Of Fighting…’

    When it comes to the promotion’s decision not to grant Magomed Ankalaev a title shot, UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira thinks the Russian only has himself to blame.

    Pereira is currently in Utah ahead of his third defense of the 205-pound belt, which he captured last November to secure a rapid rise to double-champ status on MMA’s biggest stage.

    Following knockout wins over Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka this year, many expected “Poatan’s” next assignment to be dealing with a new kind of threat — the grappling strength of Ankalaev.

    But despite the Makhachkala native sitting at #2 in the rankings and going unbeaten across his last 12 fights, the promotion went in a different direction. At UFC 307 this Saturday night, it will be the #8-ranked Khalil Rountree having his shot at unseating Pereira.

    Pereira: Title Shot Snub Entirely Down To Ankalaev

    During a recent interview with Kevin Iole, Pereira looked ahead to his third outing in quick succession, which headlines this weekend’s pay-per-view inside Salt Lake City’s Delta Center.

    One of the main topics entering fight week remains the promotion’s choice of opposition for the Brazilian ex-kickboxer. “Poatan,” however, believes Ankalaev’s pursuit of blame can go no further than his own doorstep.

    “Honestly, it’s not my fault that Ankalaev have such a boring style of fighting that nobody wants to watch, that the guys don’t want to put him in,” Pereira said. “I’m ready to fight the guy. He’s ready to fight me, so whenever they put that fight. People talk about my ground (game), so there’s a good chance I’m going to show everybody.”

    Talk of a supposed lackluster style has long been used against Ankalaev during his rise. But having brutally knocked out Johnny Walker this past January, the Dagestani will hope to further dismiss that narrative when he shares the Octagon with Aleksandar Rakić at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi late next month.

    Pereira, meanwhile, has frequently expressed a willingness to meet the challenge of Ankalaev. Before potentially focusing on that next, he must avoid the power shots of “The War Horse” on Oct. 5.

  • Khalil Rountree’s Coach Breaks Down Alex Pereira’s ‘Ugly’ Striking

    Khalil Rountree’s Coach Breaks Down Alex Pereira’s ‘Ugly’ Striking

    With UFC Paris: Moicano vs. Saint Denis done and dusted, fans can look forward to witnessing the return of Alex Pereira at UFC 307. The light heavyweight champion will aim to defend his title for the third time this year against Khalil Rountree.

    Although Rountree wasn’t the ideal title contender based on rankings, many believe him to be an excellent matchup for “Poatan”. The Brazilian has been knocking people out with left hooks and kicks, and Rountree has been very successful since incorporating Muay Thai into his striking.

    Here’s what Rountree’s coach thinks of the champion’s striking and how he plans to do the unthinkable at UFC 307…

    Khalil Rountree’s Coach Explains How To Beat An ‘Unstoppable Striker’ Like Alex Pereira Or Sean O’Malley

    Wood is still exhilarated by his student Merab Dvalishvili beating Sean O’Malley at UFC 306. While discussing Rountree’s UFC 307 fight on the Inside Fighting YouTube channel, he remembered how “Suga” seemed like an unbeatable striker, but Dvalishvili exposed several holes in his game.

    “You know, just like, using O’Malley again. [Sean] Was this unstoppable striker and this and that. There’s always, there’s layers, there’s layers to the onion that you have to peel back for the game plan.”

    Although Rountree is unlikely to grapple like Dvalishvili to neutralize his opponent’s offense, his coach claims that there are several things to capitalize on. Wood acknowledged that Pereira’ striking can look ugly and unconventional but it works like a charm.

    For starters, Pereira has explosive knockout power which always keeps his opponents at bay. On top of that, Wood thinks that by performing rather unusual moves, the Brazilian lures his opponents to enter the pocket following which the fight usually ends.

    “One, the guy’s got hammers for hands. Two, I think he lulls people into that like, you know, ‘hey, I’m making mistakes’ and you know, ‘come and get me.’ And then, boop! You’re waking up on the canvas,” Wood continued,” No matter sometimes how ugly things might look or maybe unconventional but unconventional works just as well as conventional, if you know what you’re doing.”

    Without revealing a lot, Wood shared that Rountree’s game plan heading into UFC 307 is to avoid aggressing unnecessarily. The coach understands that the light heavyweight kingpin only needs one good shot, so he’ll ask his fighter to remain patient and look for real openings.

    “That’s my job to make sure that we don’t fall into any of those traps. You’re going to see this, and his hands are down and he’s leading with his face. He wants to get you, you know, no, there’s reasons he’s doing that.”

    Wood has a fair assessment of Pereira’s striking game. Will it help Rountree finally win UFC gold at UFC 307, though?

  • Alex Pereira Sheds Light On Talk Of Middleweight Return: ‘I Just Needed A Break’

    Alex Pereira Sheds Light On Talk Of Middleweight Return: ‘I Just Needed A Break’

    In his relatively short time in the UFC thus far, Alex Pereira has quickly earned a pair of championships and status as a top name in the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings.

    Some are eyeing a potential move to heavyweight for Pereira, who defends the UFC light heavyweight championship next weekend against Khalil Rountree at UFC 307. But he has previously noted that he could be looking at a move back down to middleweight in the wake of Dricus Du Plessis retaining the UFC middleweight title against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305.

    In a new interview with The Schmo, “Poatan” stated the move to 205 pounds was done in order to take a break from tough weight cuts.

    “I would like [a fight with Du Plessis] to be at middleweight,” Pereira said. “I told everybody that I just needed a break from 185, from all those weight cuts. I feel good, I feel healthy right now.”

    Pereira, who was also a middleweight and light heavyweight champion in GLORY Kickboxing, made his UFC debut as a middleweight at UFC 268. He quickly won three straight before challenging Adesanya, his old kickboxing foe, for the middleweight title at UFC 281.

    Pereira won via fifth-round finish but was knocked out by Adesanya in a rematch at UFC 287.

    Pereira then moved up to light heavyweight, defeating Jan Blachowicz at UFC 291 before defeating Jiří Procházka  at UFC 295 for the light heavyweight title.

    Pereira has since defended the 205-pound title against Jamahal Hill and Procházka at UFC 300 and 303, respectively.

  • Chael Sonnen Compares Alex Pereira To Legendary Freestyle Wrestler John Smith: ‘Greats Think Differently’

    Chael Sonnen Compares Alex Pereira To Legendary Freestyle Wrestler John Smith: ‘Greats Think Differently’

    Chael Sonnen, like millions of others, is a huge fan of Alex Pereira, who has won two UFC belts and defeated five champs in just two years. His stoic persona matches his appalling fighting style amazingly well, and despite not speaking English, he has won the fans over with his flashy knockouts and consistency.

    “Poatan” has already headlined UFC 300 and UFC 303 in 2024. He’ll defend the light heavyweight championship again at UFC 307 against Khalil Rountree and walking away with an impressive win is bound to skyrocket his popularity even further.

    While the world keeps theorizing the reason behind Pereira’s unprecedented rise, Chael Sonnen believes that the secret could be quite simple…

    Chael Sonnen Believes Alex Pereira To Be A Genius With Simplicity Like John Smith, One Of The Greatest Freestylers Of All Time

    Sonnen invited Mike Soccio onto his YouTube channel for a podcast where they discussed all things combat sports, including Pereira. According to the writer, “Poatan” might be extremely clever in training with Sean Strickland ahead of UFC 307 because the latter absolutely despises Rountree.

    Unsurprisingly, Strickland has been going off on Rountree in recent interviews. From claiming that “The War Horse” is in a cult to calling him a beta male, the former UFC middleweight champion has left no stone unturned in explaining why he doesn’t like Pereira’s next opponent.

    “Turns out Pereira is legit. It turns out he’s an actual badass and when an actual badass. Right? Everybody’s a gangster until a gangster walks in the room. And it turns out, Pereira is actually the tough guy even though he didn’t have the sport and he doesn’t have a black belt in anything.”

    Soccio believes this could be Pereira’s way to get under Rountree’s skin without having to be the bad guy. He thinks that it’s a genius move, but Sonnen assumes things are a lot simpler for the UFC light heavyweight champion.

    “Clearly he’s a genius. But I agree with you. I don’t think it’s deeply thought out. I don’t think his book would have a whole bunch of chapters to it. I bet you it’s something really simple.”

    Sonnen looked back at the time when he asked John Smith about winning the Olympic Games gold in 1988 against all odds. Smith’s response that he just decided to be the world champion in 1988 made “The American Gangster” realize how a lot of greats hardly care about external factors.

    Sonnen puts Pereira in a similar category. He doesn’t think “Poatan” is trying to scare his opponents through mental warfare or trash talk. Instead, he’s deeply focused on improving himself and taking out any opponent put in front of him.

    “He had decided that he, it had nothing to do with that guy beat my brother or my family’s been to court. Or he’s the gold medalist or I’m still in college and has never been done. It had nothing to do, he had decided that he was going to be Olympic champion,” Sonnen continued, “These greats, though, right? These greats, they think differently and it’s not always more complex. Sometimes, it’s more basic and I just say that because I think that Pereira is probably the more basic.”

  • Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson Provides His Prediction For Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson Provides His Prediction For Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Stephen Thompson recently shared his forecast for the UFC 307 main event clash between Alex Pereira and Khalil Rountree.

    “Poatan” is set to defend his UFC light heavyweight title for the third time, this time against Khalil Rountree in the headlining bout of the upcoming pay-per-view on October 5, taking place at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    Pereira enters this fight riding high off back-to-back successful title defenses against former champions earlier this year. His most recent victory came in June at UFC 303, where he delivered a stunning second-round knockout of Jiri Prochazka in their short-notice rematch.

    Since joining the UFC in November 2021, the Brazilian’s trajectory has been steadily skyward. After conquering the middleweight division, he made the leap to light heavyweight, and with just one victory at 205 pounds to earn a title shot, he seized gold with a TKO win over Prochazka at UFC 295 last November.

    Meanwhile, “The War Horse” is making his return after serving a 4.5-month suspension for testing positive for a steroid hormone, with the sanction lifted on September 18. He is currently riding a five-fight win streak, with his latest victory being a third-round knockout of Anthony Smith last December.

    Despite being a UFC veteran since 2016, Rountree has often been viewed as someone who hasn’t quite realized his full potential. However, UFC 307 will finally give him his long-awaited first shot at the gold.

    Thompson Believes Pereira vs. Rountree Will Come Down To Who Outstrikes The Other

    During a recent interview with Bodgog Canada, Thompson shared his thoughts on the upcoming Pereira vs. Rountree title fight at UFC 307. While “Wonderboy” clearly favored the the reigning champion, he didn’t shy away from commending Rountree’s top-tier striking ability. He predicted that with both being more comfortable on the feet, the fight will likely be stand-up heavy and determine who the better striker is.

    “I’m leaning towards Pereira as well, but I think it’s a great fight because both guys are very dangerous fighters,” Thompson said. “Khalil Rountree has got some of the best striking as well; it comes from that Muay Thai background, so basically this is going to be a Muay Thai fight. This is going to be a standup battle, toe-to-toe, to see who’s going to be the better striker.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RDauugAV1A&t=475s

    The former UFC welterweight title challenger further explained his clear inclination toward “Poatan,” citing Pereira’s impressive track record. Thompson highlighted Pereira’s devastating one-punch knockout power, coupled with his significant reach advantage, as key factors that make him a formidable force against Rountree.

    “Obviously, I’ve got to lean towards my man Alex Pereira just because of his credentials and what he’s done in the 185 and 205 [pound] divisions in the UFC. I mean, he’s got a left hook with one-hitter-quitter power. Now, Rountree is big and strong, but can he close the gap? Alex Pereira’s got the longer reach, he’s very calm, and he’s very precise—he’s like a sniper out there when it comes to his strikes. It’s a very hard fight, but I think it’s going to be exciting.”

    “Wonderboy” is also set to compete at UFC 307 in a welterweight bout against Joaquin Buckley, marking his return to the Octagon after a 10-month break.

  • Khalil Rountree’s Coach Talked Him Out Of Retirement A Decade Before His UFC 307 Title Fight Against Alex Pereira

    Khalil Rountree’s Coach Talked Him Out Of Retirement A Decade Before His UFC 307 Title Fight Against Alex Pereira

    Khalil Rountree reached The Ultimate Fighter 23’s final but lost to Andrew Sanchez who controlled him for the majority of the fight. He then lost to Tyson Pedro via submission and needed to urgently rack up some wins to secure his place in the promotion.

    From having such a rocky start in the UFC to challenging Alex Pereira for light heavyweight gold, Rountree has naturally come a long way. He’s riding a five-fight win streak including four knockouts and many believe his bout against “Poatan” will be fireworks as well.

    John Wood recently shared an inspiring story of him convincing Rountree to not retire at the outset of his career…

    Khalil Rountree Might’ve Never Challenged Alex Pereira At UFC 307 If His Coach Didn’t Stop Him From Retiring

    Wood appeared on Daniel Cormier’s official YouTube channel recently to talk about one of his oldest students finally fighting for a UFC title. The coach remembered “The War Horse” wanted to retire from MMA after his third or fourth fight.

    “I think, it was you know, third or fourth fight, he was talking to me about wanting to retire and going to construction. He’s like, yeah, I think I got this good construction job it’s gonna pay money. I said whoa, whoa, bro, no no no, I was like, just give me a year. Give me a year and I promise you do whatever I’ll support you after that. just give me a hard year. And you know, through that process, The Ultimate Fighter came.”

    The Syndicate MMA head coach naturally asked Rountree to hold his horses and train with him seriously for at least a year. It is safe to say that the American fighter made the right choice as he would enter The Ultimate Fighter 23 and reach the finals.

    Although Wood was initially upset by the decision, he claims that Rountree matured while training in Thailand and learned how to digest the hype and responsibility he received as a talented and exciting prospect.

    “We had some ups, had some downs and then you know, he moved to Thailand after the Gokhan Saki fight. And kind of, you know, found himself as a person, as a man. You know, I think he was gone for a couple of years and ended up hitting me back up,” Wood continued. “It’s been nothing but great since he’s been back and we’ve had nothing but success. He’s really matured as a fighter.”

    The coach admitted to having the same excitement regardless of which of his fighters is fighting. However, the UFC 307 main event might be one of his most memorable moments because he’s helped Rountree and stuck by him from the very beginning.

  • Former UFC Champion Touts Khalil Rountree To Beat Alex Pereira ‘At His Own Game’

    Former UFC Champion Touts Khalil Rountree To Beat Alex Pereira ‘At His Own Game’

    A former UFC middleweight champion recently praised Khalil Rountree, claiming he has what it takes to defeat Alex Pereira by outclassing him in his own area of expertise.

    “The War Horse” is preparing for his first title shot as he challenges reigning light heavyweight champion Pereira in the main event of UFC 307, set for October 5 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    “Poatan” has been a relentless powerhouse since making his mark in the 205-pound division last year, firmly establishing his dominance by defending his belt twice within the span of two months. Pereira is coming off a second-round knockout of Jiri Prochazka in their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 303 this past June.

    While Pereira may be renowned for his crushing power and world-class kickboxing that dismantles his opponents, Rountree has made it clear that he won’t resort to takedowns, opting instead to keep the battle standing.

    Michael Bisping believes that “The War Horse” is more than capable of going toe-to-toe with the Brazilian champion in a striking showdown…

    Bisping Warns ‘Poatan’ To Respect Rountree’s Abilities: ‘Pereira Has To Take Him Seriously’

    During a a recent video on his YouTube channel, “The Count” gave his thoughts on the upcoming title clash between Pereira and Rountree. The UFC Hall of Famer highlighted some of the notable names the American challenger has taken down in recent bouts, pointing out that while “The War Horse” may appear hittable, he’s proven his prowess by defeating elite-level kickboxers like Gokhan Saki.

    Bisping emphasized that Pereira should tread carefully in striking exchanges, as Rountree is no stranger to top-tier competition.

    “Anthony Smith was able to land some straight rights, and if Smith can land them, you’ve got to think that Pereira is going to land them,” Bisping said. “But if we dig a little deeper, if we look at some of the other people that he’s [Rountree] beaten, there’s a name that stands out, and that name is the one and only Gokhan Saki… When he went up against Khalil Rountree, he got knocked out in the first round.”

    “Who is Khalil? Well, Khalil was a kickboxer. He has the confidence to put it out there and truly mean it by saying that he’s not going to shoot. He’s going to stand there, go toe to toe, and try to beat Pereira at his own game.”

    Rountree is currently enjoying the success of a five-fight win streak. The 34-year-old was initially slated to face former champion Jamahal Hill at UFC 303, but Rountree had to withdraw after receiving a 4.5-month suspension for testing positive for a steroid hormone. Fortunately for “The War Horse”, the suspension ended on September 18, clearing the path for his return.

  • UFC Legends Lay Down ‘Heel’ Gameplan For Islam Makhachev To Be As Popular As Jon Jones & Alex Pereira

    UFC Legends Lay Down ‘Heel’ Gameplan For Islam Makhachev To Be As Popular As Jon Jones & Alex Pereira

    Islam Makhachev became the UFC lightweight champion in October 2022 by defeating Charles Oliveira. His second-round submission win was commanding, and many rightly predicted that he would keep the belt for quite some time.

    Makhachev beat P4P No. 1 Alexander Volkanovski via decision in his first title defense and knocked him out with a head kick in the rematch. He then submitted Dustin Poirier in the fifth but also proved that his striking prowess is second to none in the lightweight division.

    Arman Tsarukyan, who Makhachev beat via unanimous decision in 2019, is likely to be the next title challenger. According to Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen, the lightweight kingpin needs to turn ‘heel’ to make the most of his outstanding run in the UFC…

    Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen Explain How Islam Makhachev Can Become UFC’s Biggest Star By Pursuing Floyd Mayweather’s Approach

    In a recent episode of Good Guy / Bad Guy on the ESPN MMA YouTube channel, Sonnen and Cormier expressed concern over the current state of UFC champions. Because most of the champions have only recently won their belts, the company doesn’t boast a lot of stars.

    After calling Jon Jones and Alex Pereira the two most popular fighters on the roster, Cormier advocated that Makhachev has the potential to replace them once they’ve retired or lost. However, he would have to tone down the politeness.

    Sonnen agreed with the former UFC heavyweight kingpin. According to the veterans, a heel turn would benefit Makhachev greatly as he already drops cold statements but in a rather respectful manner. For readers unaware of the term, a heel in pro wrestling is the person who plays the villain.

    Here’s Sonnen appreciating Makhachev for his personality that just needs to be marketed in MMA circles the right way:

    “Okay, that guy is so charismatic, and he is so secretly funny. If he was to do a heel turn, I mean, come on, he said one of the great heel lines ever. He said a whole bunch of professors should be taking their black belts back from guys. Like that angle and that is blasphemy in this sport and nobody even knows got it. It was like this G-rated line, he didn’t use profanity, he didn’t yell. When he said it, he said it nicely.”

    Over the years, Sonnen himself, Michael Bisping, and Colby Covington have proved that a heel personality can sell amazingly well in the UFC as well. According to Cormier, Makhachev can boast about his superior skills and diss all the lightweights. He could follow in the footsteps of Floyd Mayweather and aim to reach a stage where people tune in to watch him lose.

    “I think that’s the move for Islam. He needs to get you and I to write him promos. We should write him promos. We write promos telling how much better he is than everyone. I would make him tell everybody that they don’t deserve to be in there with him and he’s just going to lord over this division until he decides to retire.”

  • Daniel Cormier Believes Only Two Current UFC Champs Can Sell Pay-Per-Views: ‘Void Of That Big Star?’

    Daniel Cormier Believes Only Two Current UFC Champs Can Sell Pay-Per-Views: ‘Void Of That Big Star?’

    A lot has changed in the last couple of years for the UFC. The roster features many new exciting talents, but dominant champs like Israel Adesanya, Alexander Volkanovski, and Kamaru Usman also lost their belts.

    In its different eras, the UFC has benefited heavily from megastars like Chuck Liddell, Conor McGregor, and Ronda Rousey. However, it looks like the company now wants its brand to reign supreme. If people trust the UFC to be the premier MMA organization in the world, they won’t evaluate the quality of the card based on the stars it has.

    Having said that, popular fighters are still a boon, if not a necessity, for the UFC. According to Daniel Cormier, the promotion currently lacks champions that can sell pay-per-views like their predecessors…

    Daniel Cormier Explains Why Islam Makhachev, Belal Muhammad, Ilia Topuria, Merab Dvalishvili, And Other UFC Champs Aren’t Stars Yet

    On the latest episode of Good Guy / Bad Guy on the ESPN MMA YouTube channel, Cormier and Sonnen discussed the current UFC champs. According to the former UFC heavyweight kingpin, only Jon Jones and Alex Pereira are proven draws for the UFC.

    “Is there a void of that big star? Because right now, it feels like only Jon Jones and Pereira, Pereira and Jon Jones might be the only two Champions right now that are completely moving the needle.”

    All the other champs in the promotion have either just reached the top or don’t have the most exciting fighting style and mic skills. The iconic duo also talked about how MMA has evolved drastically in recent years, making it unlikely for new champions to beat title defense records set by Jones, Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva, Demetrious Johnson, and other greats.

    “Jon Jones right now is a proven draw. He will sell pay-per-views. Alex Pereira, under right circumstances, will sell pay-per-views. But then when I list these other names to you, Chael, Zhang Weili, the 25 pound champion is the Brazilian, Pantoja, Merab Dvalishvili, Ilia Topuria, Islam Makhachev, Belal Muhammad. Let’s keep going.”

    DC backed his claims by mentioning the not-so-great numbers generated by Makhachev vs. Poirier at UFC 302. He also revealed that Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya did decent, but the number was much lower than what “The Last Stylebender” was bringing in at his peak.

    “The problem is the game has gotten so hard now. Anderson had what? 11 title defenses. Jones had like 13. Who’s doing that anymore?”

    “Poatan” is 37 and “Bones” might consider retirement after fighting Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. Cormier believes that the UFC has yet to find proper replacements for its biggest stars at the moment which could be detrimental.