Alex Pereira’s coach, Plinio Cruz, has disclosed that the UFC superstar was awarded a remarkable $303,000 bonus for his knockout victory at UFC 303 during a recent appearance on the MMA Hour. This revelation comes just days after Pereira’s dominant performance against Jiri Prochazka, solidifying his status as one of the biggest stars in the promotion.
According to Cruz, the initial bonus amount set by UFC President Dana White was $50,000, a standard figure for such a impressive win. However, during a conversation with Dana White backstage, Pereira had expressed his desire for a $303,000 bonus, and to the surprise of many, White obliged.
“Pereira continued his dream run in the UFC with another victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303,” Cruz stated. “His in-octagon dominance has earned him massive fame and made him one of the biggest stars on the current UFC roster.”
The coach further explained that White’s decision to grant Pereira’s bonus wish was influenced by the fact that the Brazilian had not received the special $300,000 bonus at UFC 300, despite his outstanding performance. “Needless to say, Pereira would be a much happier man after getting his wish materialized,” Cruz added.
However, Pereira’s post-fight interview also revealed another intriguing possibility – his desire to move up to the heavyweight division. “The current UFC heavyweight champ, Jones, has also revealed that he would have no issues in fighting Pereira after he’s done with Stipe Miocic,” Cruz mentioned.
Yet, Dana White remains unconvinced about Pereira’s move to heavyweight, at least for now. “The UFC President would first see the Brazilian finish off his division first before making a move to further his legacy at heavyweight,” Cruz revealed.
This latest development not only cements Pereira’s status as one of the UFC’s premier stars but also showcases the promotion’s willingness to accommodate the requests of its top talents.
Pereira single handedly saved UFC 303 just a couple months after headlining UFC 300 – at which he lost two $300,000 bonuses which went ot Max Holloway despite the fact Pereira KO-ed Jamahal Hill in title defense.
