Alex Pereira’s Jaw-Dropping Weight Reveal UFC 313 Title Defense Set to Ignite the Light Heavyweight Division

UFC fans were left stunned when Alex Pereira’s latest weight update surfaced, just one month before his high-stakes title defense against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 on March 8. The reigning light heavyweight champion has always been known for his monstrous frame, but his current size has reignited speculation about a future move to the heavyweight division.

Pereira’s Journey: From Middleweight to Dominance at 205 lbs

It’s becoming harder to believe that Pereira once competed in the middleweight division. A former two-division kickboxing champion in GLORY, he entered the UFC with just a 3-1 MMA record in 2021. Yet, within four fights, he claimed the middleweight title, delivering a stunning knockout victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 281.

However, his first reign as champion was short-lived. In an immediate rematch, Adesanya reclaimed the belt, handing Pereira his first UFC loss. Rather than dwell on the setback, “Poatan” made a career-defining decision—moving up to the light heavyweight division, where he has demolished four consecutive opponents since his championship-winning fight against Jiří Procházka at UFC 295.

The Ultimate Test: Ankalaev’s Grappling vs. Pereira’s Power

Pereira is now gearing up for what could be the toughest fight of his career against Magomed Ankalaev—a dangerous Dagestani grappler who sits as the #1-ranked contender. Ankalaev’s wrestling-heavy style has made him a nightmare matchup for many strikers, leaving fans wondering: Can Pereira handle the relentless grappling assault?

Adding to the intrigue is Pereira’s sheer size, just a month away from fight night. The Brazilian has never struggled to make weight, but seeing him this massive so far out from the event has raised questions about how much weight he will have to cut to make the 205-lb limit.

Heavyweight Move Incoming?

It’s no secret that Pereira has entertained the idea of moving up to heavyweight, given his brutal weight cuts. With Jon Jones teasing a “massive announcement” and Tom Aspinall waiting for a marquee fight, some fans are already fantasizing about Pereira testing himself against the UFC’s biggest powerhouses.

But first, Pereira must get past Ankalaev. If he successfully defends his light heavyweight belt for a fourth time, speculation will only intensify about whether he will attempt to become the UFC’s first three-division champion.

What’s Next for “Poatan”?

With just weeks to go, anticipation is reaching fever pitch. Will Pereira’s power and precision striking be enough to stop Ankalaev’s grinding wrestling game? Or will we witness a new champion crowned in the 205-lb division?