Alex Pereira’s move to Hollywood has come with a mixed reaction.
One of the few UFC fighters to have become a two-division UFC champion, Alex Pereira is now going for two-time status as he tries to exact his revenge on current light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev.
Ankalaev handed ‘Poatan’ his first loss at 205 lbs at UFC 313 in March, where he won by unanimous decision.
A lot was made of Pereira’s first training camp and preparation for Ankalaev or lack thereof, as the former champion traveled across the world in the lead-up, going on many adventures outside of training.
There’s a similar narrative ahead of his rematch with Ankalaev at UFC 320 on Oct. 4 in Las Vegas.
Pereira will not only gear up for his next fight, but also for a new movie.
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Alex Pereira criticized after taking time off to film new movie
In October, Pereira was reported to play a villain in A24’s new thriller ‘Onslaught‘.
On Sunday, Pereira posted set photos and videos from the upcoming film and his new costume, which has the UFC star in tactical gear, half of his face painted black, and wielding a butcher knife.
While fans are excited for Pereira’s acting debut, others are left concerned that he’s not taking rival Ankalaev as seriously as he should for their UFC 320 title fight.
“Things started going downhill fast when Ronda Rousey started doing movies,” a fan wrote on X.
“I need my boy focused on getting the belt back. I hope this isn’t a distraction,” the fan added.
“Never good for fighter’s careers when they start taking other jobs,” another fan wrote.
“Once they go hollywood, they never go back as a champ,” said another fan.
“Never winning in the UFC again. Man has gone Hollywood,” a fan predicted.
“Get off the movie and lock in. You gotta get your belt back in two months,” another fan said.
‘Onslaught’ does not currently have a release date.
Michael ‘Venom’ Page will look to follow Alex Pereira into Hollywood
UFC 319’s Michael ‘Venom’ Page wants to appear on the big screen following his MMA retirement.
Ahead of his top contender fight against Jared Cannonier this weekend, Page told Fred Talks Fighting he is starting his own film company called ‘ITM’, and will be looking to cross over as an actor.
“We’re doing films,” Page confirmed.
“I’m going to be acting as well.
“I’ll be busy, I’m sure,” Page said of life after fighting.
“Oh yeah, definitely,” Page said, when he was asked if he’s a better actor than ex-UFC champ Michael Bisping.
“You guys will see it soon,” Page teased.