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Alex Pereira Takes Risk, Accepts Short-Notice Rematch with Jiri Prochazka
Alex Pereira, just two months after his impressive knockout victory over Jamahal Hill at UFC 300, found himself in a challenging situation in Australia. Despite recovering from multiple broken toes, the defending 205-pound champion made a bold decision that not every champion or star fighter would take.
The Brazilian fighter agreed to a short-notice rematch with Jiri Prochazka. Both popular light-heavyweights are now set to headline UFC 303 later this month. Their bout became the replacement main event after Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler was canceled due to McGregor’s injury.
“I understand that this fight is very close, and there may be difficulties with the lead-up time. BUT if there is somebody that can make this happen, it is me! POATAN!” Pereira shared on social media once the UFC officially announced the fight.
“This is why I am one of the biggest names in the UFC, Alex Pereira! I take risks that not one other person would be willing to take, but I know I have my ancestors with me. The spirits are with me, and I’m ready for it all.”
Pereira’s Remarkable Journey
Pereira, a former UFC middleweight champion, holds victories over top fighters like Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. Since moving up to the light-heavyweight division following a loss to Adesanya, Pereira boasts a 3-0 record with impressive performances.
Earlier in the year, Pereira stepped up on short notice to headline UFC 300, although he had more time to prepare for that event. In November, he knocked out Prochazka at UFC 295, where they fought for the vacant title at Madison Square Garden.
On the other hand, Prochazka, the current No. 1-ranked contender, bounced back with a thrilling technical knockout victory over Aleksandar Rakić at UFC 300. He also received a Performance of the Night bonus for his outstanding performance.
The Czech fighter, a former titleholder, won the championship at UFC 275 two years ago by submitting Glover Teixeira. However, he later vacated the title due to a significant shoulder injury. The loss to Pereira at UFC 295 marked his return after a 17-month layoff following surgery.
UFC 303 is scheduled for June 29 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
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