Some think Alex Pereira is targeting an easier challenge by setting his sights on Jon Jones over Tom Aspinall.
It did not take long for Pereira to reveal his future plans after making a swift return to the light heavyweight throne in the main event of Saturday’s pay-per-view.
Pereira knocked out Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320, avenging the result from this past March and beginning a second rule over the division. With that result, Pereira became the first light heavyweight since Jones to recapture the belt after losing it.
And next, ‘Poatan’ wants a clash between two of only three 205-pound champs to enjoy more than one reign.
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Alex Pereira wants a heavyweight move next, but not to fight Tom Aspinall
During UFC 320 fight week, ‘Poatan’ admitted that cutting the pounds continues to get tougher, meaning a heavyweight move could be on the cards sooner rather than later.
Although Dana White poured cold water on Pereira’s plans at his post-fight press conference, the Brazilian not only reiterated his heavyweight ambition but even suggested that it is what he wants next.
While some might expect him to target the chance to make history by becoming the first fighter in UFC history to win three divisional titles, Pereira has other ideas for his debut in the division.
“Heavyweight (is the most probable next),” Pereira said on About Last Fight.
“No, (not Aspinall or Ciryl Gane), I want a super fight. It would be at the White House, against Jon Jones. That’s a super fight.”
Alex Pereira’s comments leave some fans saying Tom Aspinall is being ‘ducked’ — again
Pereira’s comments have sparked a sense of déjà vu regarding Aspinall for many in the community.
Reacting to the light heavyweight king’s callout of Jones, a number of fans accused ‘Poatan’ of following in the GOAT contender’s footsteps by avoiding a fight with the dangerous Englishman.
Jones was accused of ‘ducking’ Aspinall after refusing to unify the heavyweight titles against the then-interim champ before briefly retiring this past summer.
“Lol now Alex is ducking Tom. You cant make this up! Alex and the ‘Duck King’ Jones deserve each other.”
“Jon ducked Tom, fought a firefighter. Alex is ducking Tom to fight semi-retired Jon.”
“Doesn’t even wanna mention Tom’s name, Lol.”
“He knows Aspinall is too big and would absolutely dog-walk him. Going for the old retired vet, smart move.”
“‘No I want someone old and washed’.”
“He knows Tom beats him.”
“Clear duck.”