Alex “Poatan” Pereira, a fighter known for his devastating power and rapid ascent through two UFC divisions, recently faced a setback, losing his light heavyweight belt to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313. Now 38 years old, the inevitable question arises: can a combatant nearing the age of 40 truly return to the pinnacle of such a physically demanding sport? In the unforgiving world of mixed martial arts, achieving or regaining championship status late in a career is a rare feat, typically reserved for a select few.
However, according to at least one prominent voice within the sport, Pereira is not subject to the standard rules of fighter longevity. UFC analyst Din Thomas, known for his candid assessments, believes that `Poatan` is a significant “exception” to the general principle that age hinders a fighter`s ability to reclaim former glory.
Din Thomas`s Case for Pereira as the `Exception`
Speaking on Daniel Cormier`s YouTube channel, Thomas outlined his reasoning for why Pereira defies the typical age curve:
- **Low-Impact Fighting Style:** Thomas points to Pereira`s striking-heavy approach as a key factor. His style, characterized by minimal footwork and reliance on power, results in considerably less wear and tear on his body compared to fighters who grapple extensively or rely on constant, high-movement footwork. This less physically taxing method allows him to potentially compete at a high level for longer.
- **Division Strength (or Lack Thereof):** Perhaps a more controversial point, Thomas suggested the light heavyweight division is “one of the Top 3 worst divisions in the UFC.” While subjective, the implication is that a less crowded or talent-deep landscape makes the path back to the title, and the challenge of holding it, less daunting.
- **Clear Path to Rematch:** In Thomas`s view, the current state of the division means Pereira is the most logical challenger for Ankalaev. He argued that “There’s no one else in the division that warrants a fight” against the champion, suggesting Pereira should receive an immediate rematch despite the recent loss.
Based on these factors, Thomas expressed confidence that Pereira could not only win back the light heavyweight title but potentially go on to defend it multiple times.
The Uncertain Road Ahead
While the analytical perspective offers a glimmer of optimism for Pereira fans, the immediate future remains somewhat shrouded in uncertainty. Following UFC 313, both Pereira and Ankalaev verbally agreed to a rematch. Yet, in the months since, a strange narrative has emerged, with Ankalaev publicly claiming Pereira has declined subsequent fight offers. Pereira, conversely, has insisted he remains on track for a return later this year, seeking to avenge his loss and dismissing brief rumors of retirement.
Adding another layer of complexity, former champion Jiri Prochazka has also been actively engaging with Ankalaev, positioning himself as a potential alternative challenger for the belt.
Whether Din Thomas`s analysis proves prophetic and Alex Pereira successfully navigates the challenges of age and divisional politics to reclaim UFC gold remains to be seen. The combat sports world is currently holding its breath, awaiting official word on `Poatan`s` next move and the clarification of the light heavyweight title picture.
