Alex Pereira made history in the UFC by securing championship belts in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions within a single year. The controversy arose during his second-round knockout victory over former Light Heavyweight Champion Jiri Prochazka, who was making a comeback from shoulder surgery.
Following a closely contested first round, Pereira strategically used leg kicks to neutralize the attacks of the renowned Polish striker. The turning point occurred when Prochazka attempted a takedown, prompting Pereira to unleash powerful elbows to the side of his head. However, referee Marc Goddard intervened and prevented further hits.
The fight was officially stopped at 4:08 in Round 2, declaring Pereira the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion of the world. The MMA community’s opinions on the fight’s conclusion were divided, evident in the widespread reactions on social media from various fighters.
Former UFC double champ Daniel Cormier also felt that the stoppage was a bit early, but he took nothing away from the new champion. On his YouTube channel, DC expressed how amazed he was by Pereira’s strong leg kicks.
He even went on to say that moves like those should be illegal for being so dangerous. “That move, Ben, it should be an illegal move. It’s like cheating in video games. Because, dude, I’m telling you it doesn’t take many. Did you see him kick Jiri Prochazka twice, and then Jiri took a bad step? I was almost like, Oh my goodness, he’s compromised already from two leg kicks,” said Daniel Cormier
Prior to the UFC 295 main event, Pereira engaged in a sit-down interview with Cormier. In the course of their discussion, DC inquired about Pereira’s leg kick and expressed curiosity about its impact. ‘DC’ willingly received the kick, resulting in a comical and entertaining reaction.
Daniel Cormier feels Alex Pereira is still an amateur fighter
After the conclusion of UFC 295, former light heavyweight and heavyweight titleholder Cormier shared his reflections on his YouTube channel. He elaborated on Pereira’s unprecedented accomplishments inside the Octagon, highlighting the remarkable feat of becoming a two-weight champion in just seven fights.
Cormier also emphasized the special and unique bond between ‘Poatan’ and his mentor, former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Glover Teixeira. Additionally, he pointed out that Pereira’s journey in the world’s biggest MMA promotion has been no less than incredible.
Alex Pereira has just fought seven fights in the UFC and has managed to win two championship belts. According to DC, if the fans see the number of fights Pereira fought, he is still an amateur fighter. Nevertheless, his guest, Ben Askren, appreciated mixed martial arts as it gives opportunities to deserving and capable fighters irrespective of the number of fights on their resume.