UFC middleweight contender Sean Strickland revealed that current champion Alex Pereira asked him if he could train at his gym (Xtreme Couture) for the upcoming title defense.
Newly crowned UFC middleweight champion Alex Pereira is now the center of attention. He entered the UFC with a blast, having had only 3 matches before earning a title shot. He successfully defeated his old kickboxing rival Israel Adesanya at UFC 281. The Brazilian delivered a combination of punches and the referee stopped the bout, marking his victory over the long-reigning champion.
Now, a lot of top contenders are in line to face Pereira. Many believe they have a big chance of winning, knowing that Pereira has a lacking ground game and takedown defense. Even welterweight star Khamzat Chimaev immediately called him out after watching his match at UFC 281.
UFC hasn’t confirmed the opponent’s name and dates for Pereira’s first title defense, but the 35-year-old has a plan for the preparation. His former opponent Sean Strickland said that Pereira is interested in training in his gym.
“Pereira, he actually asked if he could come to a training camp with us. I’ll welcome him. He is a warrior, a gentleman.” Strickland in an interview on ESPN after UFC Vegas 67.
Pereira talked about his octagon return during UFC 283 media day in Brazil. He said that he will be ready to face in April or May, but nothing in the works as of yet. He also revealed that he will be ready against anyone the UFC offered to him.
“I want to come back in April or May. I will be ready for those dates. There is nothing in the works now and I know it’s probably going to be Izzy [Israel Adesanya] with the rematch or probably with Robert Whittaker. No preferences. Izzy [Adesanya] or Robert [Whittaker], I will be ready.” Pereira said.