Daniel Cormier believes that the only reason Alex Pereira would willingly relinquish the UFC light heavyweight championship is to pursue history. Following UFC CEO Dana White’s announcement that Jiri Prochazka and Carlos Ulberg will compete for the empty 205-pound belt at UFC 327 on April 11 in Miami, speculation suggests that Pereira (13-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is preparing to move up to the heavyweight division.
The notion of “Poatan” jumping to a third division after successfully capturing titles at middleweight and light heavyweight has intrigued fans. However, the specific matchup that will facilitate his entrance into the heavyweight category remains unclear.
Cormier, a long-time UFC commentator and Hall of Famer, expressed his views on his YouTube channel, stating that a monumental opportunity must be at play for Pereira to vacate his title. “I don’t think Pereira would give up his belt just to take a fight,” he said. “If he is fighting at heavyweight, and if he is going to get an opportunity to fight for the heavyweight championship, who is it? Is it Ciryl Gane? Is it Jon Jones? It’s an exciting proposition.”
Cormier is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of a Pereira versus Jones matchup, as both fighters have shown interest in facing each other. This contest could serve as a thrilling main event for UFC’s June card, drawing significant attention and fulfilling high expectations.
Nevertheless, Cormier acknowledges the past disappointments surrounding Jones and remains cautious. He insists that if he were in Pereira’s position, he would want a guarantee of pursuing another championship before vacating. He remains hopeful for a Pereira vs. Jones fight while also recognizing that if that doesn’t materialize, a clash with Ciryl Gane is likely.
As Pereira looks to carve his name into the UFC history books by possibly becoming the first fighter to hold titles in three different weight classes, fans eagerly await his next moves in this dynamic and evolving narrative.