Alex Pereira, the current UFC light heavyweight champion, is on the verge of making history this weekend at UFC 307. The Brazilian powerhouse is poised to break a remarkable record set by Ronda Rousey a decade ago.
In 2014, Rousey successfully defended her bantamweight title three times in just 189 days, setting a standard that has remained untouched since. Her impressive feat surpassed the previous records held by light heavyweight champions Tito Ortiz and Jon Jones, who accomplished similar feats in 195 and 205 days, respectively.
Now, Pereira has the opportunity to claim this coveted record for himself. If he emerges victorious in his upcoming bout against Khalil Rountree Jr. at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, he will have completed three successful title defenses in a mere 175 days.
Pereira’s journey to this potential milestone began when he captured the light heavyweight crown by defeating Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295 last November. Since then, he has solidified his reign with impressive victories over Jamahal Hill and a rematch win against Prochazka.
The odds seem to favor Pereira in this upcoming clash. Rountree Jr., despite riding a five-fight winning streak, is currently ranked eighth in the division. Many observers consider him fortunate to have secured this title shot over higher-ranked contenders like Magomed Ankalaev.
However, Rountree Jr. isn’t entering the octagon without a plan. In a recent interview with ESPN MMA, he hinted at a special technique he’s been working on, stating, “If it presents itself, everyone will know, like, ‘Oh s***, that’s it, that’s what he was talking about’.”
Pereira’s confidence is evident as he’s already contemplating his next move. Rumors suggest he’s eyeing a return to the middleweight division to challenge current champion Dricus du Plessis for the title he once held.
