Alex Pereira’s journey to become a UFC champion has been filled with ups and downs, but he hasn’t forgotten his beginnings. Leaving school at just 12 years old in Brazil, he worked at a tire shop and fought alcoholism before finding comfort in kickboxing. Making his professional debut in 2013 and becoming a Glory champion in 2017, Pereira turned to MMA in 2020 and clinched his first UFC title in 2022.
Now holding the UFC light heavyweight champion title, Pereira recently visited his former workplace, Villa Nova Borracharia in Sao Paulo, to reminisce about his past in a video posted on Instagram. Set to defend his title against Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307 on October 5th, Pereira’s opponent choice came as a surprise since Rountree Jr. holds a lower ranking compared to the No. 2 contender, Magomed Ankalaev, whom Pereira had hoped to compete against.
In a YouTube interview expressing his eagerness to face Ankalaev and his frustrations with the current situation, Pereira stressed his preparedness to take on any opponent. Despite Ankalaev’s decision, Pereira conveyed his fearlessness towards challenges and his determination to eventually meet Ankalaev in the octagon.
