Alex Pereira Teases Historic Heavyweight Move

UFC Light Heavyweight Champ Considers Jump to Heavyweight Division

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the abstract forms of two heavyweight MMA fighters engaged in an intense battle, their bodies and movements fractured and deconstructed into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape.Pereira's heavyweight ambitions could redefine his MMA legacy, but the risks are high as he ventures into uncharted territory.Sheffield Today

UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira is hinting at a potential move up to the heavyweight division, a bold and controversial decision that could cement his legacy as one of the sport's all-time greats. After dominating at middleweight and light heavyweight, Pereira is now eyeing a showdown with the legendary Jon Jones, which would make him the only fighter to hold titles in three different weight classes.

Why it matters

Pereira's potential heavyweight move would be a historic achievement, as no fighter has ever won titles in three separate divisions. However, the heavyweight division presents new challenges, and Pereira would be stepping into uncharted territory. The risks are high, but the potential rewards of becoming a true MMA great could be too tempting for the 38-year-old Brazilian to pass up.

The details

Pereira, known as 'Poatan', delivered a stunning knockout victory over Magomed Ankalaev last October to reclaim the light heavyweight title. Instead of defending his belt, Pereira has set his sights on an even bigger challenge - a heavyweight showdown with Jon Jones. Despite Jones's recent retirement, Pereira's potential move to a third weight class is still very much on the table.

  • Last October, Pereira defeated Magomed Ankalaev to reclaim the UFC light heavyweight title.
  • Pereira recently posted a cryptic three-word teaser on Instagram: '1-2-3 and go.'

The players

Alex Pereira

The current UFC light heavyweight champion, known for his elite striking skills and ambition to become the first fighter to hold titles in three different weight classes.

Jon Jones

A legendary MMA fighter who recently retired from the sport, but could potentially be lured back to the octagon for a superfight against Pereira.

Tom Aspinall

The current UFC heavyweight champion, who is currently sidelined due to a serious eye injury.

Ciryl Gane

A top contender in the UFC heavyweight division, who could potentially face Pereira for an interim title if the champion remains sidelined.

Carlos Ulberg

The only fresh matchup left for Pereira at light heavyweight, currently on a nine-fight win streak.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.