In a recent interview, former UFC Middleweight Champion Chris Weidman shared his thoughts on Alex Pereira’s wrestling abilities, likening them to Ben Askren’s striking deficiencies. Weidman expressed his reservations about Pereira’s chances of success, citing his lack of experience against skilled wrestlers.
“I do see such an opening with the wrestling, and he hasn’t really fought wrestlers who are able to take advantage of it,” Weidman said. “It’s almost like Ben Askren coming into UFC and being able to just become a multiple-time champion with no hands.”
Weidman’s comments come on the heels of Pereira’s recent UFC Light Heavyweight Championship win over Jamahal Hill, which earned him a promotion to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. While Pereira’s striking skills have been on full display, his wrestling abilities have raised concerns among fans and fighters alike.
“It’s hard for me to get fully behind Pereira because I do see such a deficiency with the wrestling,” Weidman admitted. “It’s almost so crazy, and it’s such a deficiency based on what we’ve seen so far.”
Weidman’s comparison to Ben Askren is particularly noteworthy, as Askren’s lack of striking skills did not hold him back from achieving success in the UFC and Bellator. Similarly, Weidman suggests that Pereira’s wrestling shortcomings may not hinder his chances of becoming a top contender.
“He’s kind of the opposite [of Askren],” Weidman said. “I would almost say he’s as bad as Askren is with wrestling, as bad as Askren is with striking. And this guy may go down as one of the best fighters of all time.”
Pereira’s path to the top has been marked by a string of impressive knockout victories, earning him a reputation as a formidable striker. However, Weidman’s concerns about his wrestling abilities raise questions about his ability to compete against top-tier wrestlers in the light heavyweight division.
As Pereira looks to continue his reign as UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, his next opponents will undoubtedly be taking notes on his wrestling vulnerabilities. Will Pereira be able to overcome his wrestling deficiencies and solidify his position as one of the best fighters of all time? Only time will tell.