Sports · Combat Sports · 6 hrs ago
Stipe Miocic backs Alex Pereira to win UFC heavyweight title
Stipe Miocic says Alex Pereira can win the UFC heavyweight title, which would give Pereira a third divisional title.
Pereira, a Brazilian former kickboxer, has already won UFC titles in two weight classes.
He was knocked out by Ciryl Gane in June while trying to become the promotion’s first triple champion.
Pereira is scheduled to face Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 in his second heavyweight appearance.
Gane, who beat Pereira, is set to defend the heavyweight title against Josh Hokit at UFC 334.
Miocic points to Pereira’s toughness and experience, saying he is ready for the heavyweight division.
Pereira’s next fight is a chance to move closer to a historic third title, though he must first beat Pavlovich.
Stipe Miocic says Alex Pereira can win a third UFC title by claiming the heavyweight crown.
Pereira is scheduled to fight Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335, the promotion’s final event on its 2026 schedule.
Pereira was knocked out by Ciryl Gane in June while pursuing the heavyweight title.
Miocic said Pereira is tough, prepared for the division and already at the level needed to win.
Gane is set to defend his undisputed heavyweight title against Josh Hokit at UFC 334.
- Who
- Alex Pereira, backed by former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic.
- What
- Pereira is pursuing the UFC heavyweight title and a third divisional title.
- When
- Pereira’s fight with Sergei Pavlovich is scheduled for UFC 335, at the end of the promotion’s 2026 schedule.
- Where
- In the UFC heavyweight division.
- Why
- Pereira is seeking to claim a third divisional title and make history.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Miocic unsuccessfully challenged Jon Jones for the heavyweight title at Madison Square Garden.
Pereira was knocked out by Ciryl Gane while seeking the heavyweight title.
Gane is scheduled to defend his undisputed title against Josh Hokit.
Pereira is scheduled to fight heavyweight knockout artist Sergei Pavlovich.
- Pereira’s goal
- A third divisional UFC title
- Pereira’s June opponent
- Ciryl Gane
- UFC 334 title fight
- Ciryl Gane vs. Josh Hokit
- UFC 335 fight
- Alex Pereira vs. Sergei Pavlovich
- Miocic’s former division
- Heavyweight
What people are saying
I think he can win a third belt
He’s tough. That (UFC Freedom 250) was his first time fighting in the big boy class, and I think he’s shown he’s ready to do it.