Alex “Poatan” Pereira is a name that resonates with raw power and an almost mythical aura within the combat sports world. Hailing from São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, Pereira’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a two-division champion in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is nothing short of remarkable. His unique blend of formidable striking, coupled with a stoic demeanor, has captivated fans and left a significant mark on both kickboxing and mixed martial arts. Currently competing in the Light Heavyweight division of the UFC, where he is a former champion, Pereira’s story is one of relentless pursuit of greatness, marked by both triumph and an unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
From Kickboxing King to MMA Royalty: The Genesis of “Poatan”
Born on July 7, 1987, Alex Pereira’s martial arts odyssey began not in MMA, but in the realm of kickboxing. It was here that he forged his reputation as a devastating striker, earning the moniker “Poatan,” which translates to “Hands of Stone” from the Tupi language, a fitting tribute to his knockout power. His kickboxing career, particularly under the GLORY banner, saw him rise to the pinnacle, securing both the Middleweight and Light Heavyweight titles. With a professional kickboxing record of 33-7, including 21 knockouts, Pereira’s dominance was undeniable. He held victories over some of the sport’s elite, including a memorable rivalry with Israel Adesanya, whom he defeated twice in kickboxing, once by decision and once by knockout. These encounters would later foreshadow a pivotal chapter in his MMA career.
Pereira’s transition to mixed martial arts, while initially met with skepticism regarding his grappling prowess, quickly dispelled doubts. His UFC debut in November 2021 against Andreas Michailidis at UFC 268 was a thunderous statement, ending in a second-round TKO via flying knee and punches. This swift and decisive victory signaled his arrival and set the stage for an accelerated climb through the UFC ranks.
The Israel Adesanya Saga: A Rivalry Forged in Fire
The narrative of Alex Pereira’s early UFC career is inextricably linked with that of Israel Adesanya. Their history, rooted in their kickboxing rivalry, added an unparalleled layer of intrigue to their MMA clashes. At UFC 281 in November 2022, less than a year after his UFC debut, Pereira challenged Adesanya for the UFC Middleweight Championship. In a stunning upset, and in a fight where he was down on the scorecards heading into the final round, Pereira unleashed a flurry of punches to secure a fifth-round TKO victory, becoming the UFC Middleweight Champion and once again besting his longtime rival. This victory solidified his place as a legitimate threat and demonstrated his incredible ability to find a finish even when behind.
However, the rivalry was far from over. In their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 287 in April 2023, Adesanya exacted his revenge, knocking out Pereira in the second round and reclaiming the middleweight title. This loss, while a setback, did not deter Pereira. Instead, it fueled his decision to move up to the Light Heavyweight division, a move that would usher in another championship reign.
Dominance at Light Heavyweight and Recent Fights
Pereira’s move to the 205-pound division proved to be a masterstroke. His power, already formidable at middleweight, translated even more effectively against larger opponents. He quickly ascended the light heavyweight rankings, showcasing his devastating striking and undeniable fight IQ.
At UFC 295 in November 2023, Pereira faced Jiří Procházka for the vacant UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. In a brutal display of his striking prowess, Pereira stopped Procházka in the second round, adding a second UFC title to his collection and becoming a rare two-division champion in the organization’s history. He then successfully defended his title against Jamahal Hill at UFC 300 in April 2024, securing a first-round knockout with a spectacular left hook.
His most recent outing at UFC 313 in March 2025 saw him defend his light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev. Despite a closely contested bout, Pereira ultimately lost the championship via unanimous decision. This loss marked his current official record at 12 wins and 3 losses. Despite the loss, Pereira still sees himself as the champion and has expressed a strong desire for a rematch with Ankalaev.
The “Poatan” Fighting Style: A Masterclass in Striking
Alex Pereira’s fighting style is a testament to his kickboxing roots. He is primarily a striker, renowned for his concussive power in both his hands and his kicks. His left hook is particularly devastating, and he possesses a keen ability to set up combinations that can shut down any opponent. While his grappling was initially considered a weakness, he has steadily improved this aspect of his game, demonstrating better takedown defense and an understanding of positioning.
His approach is often calculated, patient, and precise. He rarely rushes, instead opting to pick his shots and capitalize on openings. This strategic patience, combined with his inherent power, makes him a threat at any moment in a fight. Fans are always on the edge of their seats when “Poatan” steps into the octagon, knowing that a highlight-reel knockout could occur at any given second.
Personal Life and Beyond the Octagon
While primarily known for his devastating performances inside the cage, Alex Pereira’s personal life reflects a journey of overcoming adversity. Before his combat sports career, he reportedly faced challenges with alcoholism, which he credits martial arts for helping him overcome. This personal transformation adds another layer to his inspiring story, demonstrating the power of discipline and focus. He often shares glimpses of his family life, showcasing a quieter, more grounded side to the ferocious fighter. His nationality is Brazilian, and he fights out of Danbury, Connecticut, U.S. He stands at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m) tall and typically competes in the Light Heavyweight division. Born in 1987, he is currently 37 years old as of July 2025.
Controversies and Public Perception
Like many high-profile athletes, Pereira has faced his share of scrutiny. Recently, a social media post on his X account appeared to express grievances with the UFC and hinted at retirement. However, Pereira quickly clarified that his account had been hacked, stating he has a “good relationship” with the promotion and has no plans of retiring. This incident highlights the challenges athletes face in the digital age and the quick spread of misinformation. Furthermore, following his loss to Magomed Ankalaev, there were accusations from Ankalaev’s camp of Pereira “greasing” during their bout, a claim that remains unsubstantiated. Despite these minor blips, Pereira maintains a strong public image, largely due to his exciting fighting style and his humble demeanor outside the cage.
Financial Success and Future Endeavors
Alex Pereira’s rapid rise in the UFC has translated into significant financial success. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. His earnings from fights have been substantial, with reports indicating he was one of the highest-paid fighters in the UFC in 2024. He also has a growing portfolio of endorsement deals, partnering with brands like OWINIC (an NFT platform), Stake, Aviator by Spribe, BlockDag, AthletiCBD, Roobet, Venum, and Smilodox. These partnerships reflect his growing commercial appeal and his status as a global combat sports icon. He is known to own an impressive collection of luxury cars, including a Lamborghini Huracan Performante, McLaren, Ferrari, and Corvette, symbolizing his ascent from humble beginnings.
The Mental Game: “Chama” and Unwavering Belief
Beyond the physical attributes, Alex Pereira possesses an exceptional mental toughness that sets him apart. His pre-fight ritual, often involving the Pataxó bow and arrow symbolism, is not merely a show but a deep connection to his indigenous heritage and a grounding ritual that focuses his mind. The word “Chama,” his battle cry, embodies the “fire” and intensity he brings into every fight. This mental fortitude was most evident in his first fight against Israel Adesanya in the UFC, where he absorbed significant damage and was down on the scorecards, yet found the mental resolve to deliver a fight-ending flurry in the final round.
Pereira’s calm and stoic demeanor before and during fights often masks a fierce competitive spirit. He rarely engages in trash talk, letting his actions in the octagon speak for themselves. This quiet confidence, combined with his undeniable power, can be intimidating for opponents. He truly believes in his ability to finish a fight at any moment, and this unwavering self-belief is a crucial component of his success. Even after his recent loss to Magomed Ankalaev, his immediate focus was on recovery and a return to reclaim his title, demonstrating a champion’s mentality that does not dwell on defeat but immediately looks towards the next challenge.
Training under a Legend: The Glover Teixeira Influence
A significant factor in Alex Pereira’s successful transition and rapid ascent in the UFC has been his training partnership with former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Glover Teixeira. Teixeira, a grappling wizard and a well-rounded MMA veteran, has been instrumental in honing Pereira’s overall MMA skillset. Their dynamic is a perfect blend: Pereira’s elite striking complemented by Teixeira’s deep understanding of grappling and cage control.
Training at Teixeira MMA & Fitness, Pereira benefits from a comprehensive program that addresses all facets of MMA. While his striking remains the cornerstone, Teixeira has guided him in improving his defensive wrestling, jiu-jitsu fundamentals, and transitions. This mentorship extends beyond technical aspects; Teixeira, having been through the highs and lows of a long MMA career, provides invaluable guidance on the mental and strategic aspects of fighting at the elite level. The synergy between these two Brazilian powerhouses has undoubtedly propelled “Poatan” to his current standing.
The Business of “Poatan”: Lucrative Endorsements and Financial Acumen
Alex Pereira’s success in the octagon has translated into significant financial gains, solidifying his status as one of the UFC’s biggest draws. His estimated net worth of $4 million as of 2025, coupled with over $15 million in career earnings, speaks volumes about his commercial appeal. This financial success is not solely dependent on fight purses. Pereira has strategically diversified his income streams through a range of endorsement deals.
His partnerships with various brands, from the NFT platform OWNIC to betting sites like Stake and Aviator by Spribe, and lifestyle brands like AthletiCBD, Roobet, Venum, and Smilodox, highlight his broad appeal across different demographics. These endorsements not only boost his income but also enhance his global brand recognition. The reports of him being one of the highest-paid fighters in the UFC in 2024 underscore his value to the promotion. Furthermore, his acquisition of luxury cars, including a Lamborghini Huracan Performante, McLaren, Ferrari, and Corvette, serves as a tangible symbol of his hard-earned success and rags-to-riches story.
FAQs
Who is Alex “Poatan” Pereira?
Alex Sandro Silva Pereira, famously known as “Poatan” (meaning “Hands of Stone” in the Tupi language), is a Brazilian professional mixed martial artist and former professional kickboxer. He is a two-division champion in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), having held both the Middleweight and Light Heavyweight titles. He is also a former Glory Middleweight and Light Heavyweight Champion in kickboxing.
How many times has Alex Pereira been a UFC champion?
Alex Pereira has been a UFC champion twice, first as the Middleweight Champion and then as the Light Heavyweight Champion. He is the first fighter in UFC history to hold both the middleweight and light heavyweight belts.
When is Alex Pereira’s next fight?
While no official date has been announced, Alex Pereira’s next fight is expected to be a rematch against Magomed Ankalaev for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. He has indicated a desire to fight around October 2025 after a short break to recover.
Is Alex Pereira moving to heavyweight?
Despite some rumors after his recent loss, Alex Pereira has stated his intention to stay in the light heavyweight division and pursue a rematch for the title, rather than moving up to heavyweight.
What’s Next for “Poatan”?
Following his recent loss to Magomed Ankalaev, speculation about Alex Pereira’s next move has been rife. While some initially pondered a potential move to heavyweight or even retirement whispers, Pereira has decisively shut down retirement talk. He has stated his intention to return to the octagon and reclaim his light heavyweight title. He recently revealed that he plans to take a normal break to recover his body and is in talks with the UFC for a potential return around October 2025. His next fight is expected to be a rematch against Magomed Ankalaev for the light heavyweight championship.
Alex “Poatan” Pereira’s career is a testament to his incredible talent, resilience, and captivating presence. From his kickboxing dominance to his rapid rise and championship reigns in the UFC, he has consistently proven himself to be one of the most exciting and dangerous fighters in the world. As he prepares for his next chapter, the combat sports world eagerly anticipates what new heights this striking phenomenon will reach.
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