“I’m on a different level,” Alex Pereira turns his back on the biggest fight of the season
Alex Pereira dismisses a famous fight, declaring, ‘I’m on a different level.’ Discover why the UFC star is chasing legacy over spectacle in combat sports.
Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC light-heavyweight champion, has made it clear: he’s setting his sights higher than a blockbuster showdown with Jake Paul. Despite a highly publicized FaceTime call last summer that fueled speculation of a crossover clash, Pereira has dismissed the idea, asserting his dominance and ambition to pursue more meaningful challenges.
Last July, Pereira and Paul exchanged fiery words during a viral FaceTime call, sparking rumors of a potential boxing match. Paul, fresh off a victory over Mike Perry, seemed eager to test his skills against the UFC star. Alex Pereira, known for his devastating knockout power and striking pedigree, appeared open to the idea—at least at the time.
However, in a recent exclusive interview with Bloody Elbow, Pereira revealed that the hype was more media-driven than genuine.
Alex Pereira’s focus: Legacy over spectacle
Alex Pereira’s decision to turn his back on a lucrative Paul fight underscores his commitment to cementing his legacy in combat sports. Fresh off a dominant title defense, he’s now preparing to face Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313—a bout that could solidify his status as the undisputed king of the light-heavyweight division.
But Pereira’s ambitions don’t stop at MMA. He’s also expressed interest in a crossover fight with Oleksandr Usyk, the former cruiserweight boxing champion and current heavyweight titan. A champion-versus-champion clash with Usyk would not only elevate Pereira’s profile but also test his skills against one of boxing’s elite.
Why Jake Paul doesn’t make the cut
While a fight with Jake Paul would undoubtedly draw massive pay-per-view numbers, Pereira seems uninterested in what he views as a mismatch. Paul, despite his impressive wins over MMA veterans like Nate Diaz and Anderson Silva, is still seen by many as a social media star turned boxer rather than a legitimate contender.
What’s next for Pereira?
As Pereira gears up for his showdown with Ankalaev, the combat sports world is watching closely. A win could pave the way for a historic crossover bout with Usyk or even a move to heavyweight within the UFC. One thing is certain: Pereira’s journey is far from over, and he’s determined to leave an indelible mark on the sport.
For now, Jake Paul will have to look elsewhere for his next big fight. As Alex Pereira put it, “I’m on a different level.”
