UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira provides the latest insights into his injury recovery, upcoming title defense plans against Magomed Ankalaev, and aspirations to conquer both the heavyweight and middleweight divisions while ensuring his responsibilities to the light heavyweight title remain a priority.
- Alex Pereira is recovering from a hand injury sustained during his UFC 307 victory but is eyeing an early 2025 return against Magomed Ankalaev.
- He remains open to a heavyweight fight with Tom Aspinall but prioritizes defending his light heavyweight title.
- Pereira has hinted at a middleweight return to challenge Dricus du Plessis for his former title.
Injuries Delay Pereira’s Heavyweight Fight Plans
Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion, has recently discussed the physical challenges he’s facing following his latest victory.
After a knockout win over Jamahal Hill at UFC 300 on April 13, Pereira was called out for a heavyweight fight in the upcoming UFC 301.
However, he revealed that this plan is unlikely to materialize due to injuries—specifically two broken toes—one incurred before and the other during the Hill fight.
Pereira explained, “I was imagining the best-case scenario [when I called for a heavyweight fight at UFC 301], but I have two broken toes. Both feet are f—ed.” Despite the setbacks, he anticipates being medically cleared by early May.
Pereira Weighs Division Duties Against Heavyweight Dreams
Pereira’s interest in moving up to fight interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall stems from his desire to maintain career activity without holding up the light heavyweight division.
He expressed a commitment to guarantee the division continues to operate efficiently. As much as he prefers to defend his belt, Pereira acknowledges that if a heavyweight fight and potential injuries cause delays, he wouldn’t want to hold up the division.
This consideration reflects his awareness of the potential complications his cross-division ambitions could cause.
Check out some of the most gruesome UFC injuries in this article.
Pereira Sets Preferences for Fight Timing and Venue
Alex Pereira is targeting an early 2025 return to defend his light heavyweight title, likely against Magomed Ankalaev. While timing details are still under discussion, Pereira emphasized his desire to fight when fully recovered from his recent hand injury sustained at UFC 307.
He has previously expressed interest in fighting closer to home, noting the convenience of UFC’s typical November events in New York City, near his residence in Danbury, Connecticut. However, his focus now remains on recovering and ensuring his next fight aligns with both his health and divisional responsibilities.
