“UFC Is Not Kickboxing”: Alex Pereira Gets a Reality Check From an Olympic Medalist Following His Loss Against Israel Adesanya

Alex Pereira‘s loss at UFC 287 to Israel Adesanya came as a tremendous disappointment to the Brazilian’s fans and supporters. Heading into the fight, ‘Poatan’ was expected by many to continue his unbeaten run against Adesanya, having beaten him thrice in their earlier encounters.

Unfortunately, the 35-year-old ended up suffering a devastating knockout while also losing the middleweight title in the process. Following this loss, Pereira, despite seeing huge support from his fans, also found himself on the receiving end of harsh criticism from another Brazilian athlete. Pointing out the flaws in the former champ’s striking, this boxer, who notably also is an Olympic silver medallist, claimed that the 35-year-old had to make major improvements in his game going into the future.

Olympic boxer criticizes Alex Pereira over loss against Israel Adesanya

The 2012 Olympics silver medallist Esquiva Falcão, in a video on his YouTube channel, addressed his fellow countrymen’s loss at the UFC 287 main event and had a few things to share from his perspective. The boxer, who has a professional record of 30 wins and no losses, pointed out that despite having a powerful left hook, Pereira clearly lacked some of the fundamentals that a striker should have.

“Poatan has a powerful hook. When his hand lands, it’s over,” he said. Falcão then went on to single out a few weaknesses that he felt that the MMA fighter had to work on. “Poatan has no movement. He can’t move, evade strikes, throw combos. He doesn’t know anything. The UFC is not kickboxing.” the boxer pointed out.

Falcão then expressed that Pereira had to work on those flaws and suggested that he “join a boxing school” in order to develop those skills.

“He needs to improve his technique, his hips, legs, and head movement so he can evade strikes,” he stated.

For the boxer, his criticism probably came from the fact that he was disappointed at the way the fight played out. During the video, Falcão also expresses that being a Brazilian, he was rooting for Pereira to beat Adesanya again.

What’s next for Alex Pereira?

Following this loss, the natural question that arises is whether Adesanya and Pereira face each other yet again for the title. While that sounds like a valid option, statements from Dana White and even initial rumors surrounding it suggested that the Brazilian might have a different plan in place.

These rumors were ultimately confirmed by Pereira himself, as he claimed in a video clip that his next fight would be in the Light Heavyweight division.

Although when he plans to fight next or who the opponent will be is yet to be decided, a strong argument for a title shot or a contender spot for Pereira cannot be denied.

Read More: “The Wrong Person Won”: Fans Disheartened Seeing Alex Pereira Shed Tears After His Loss Against Israel Adesanya at UFC 287

Ultimately, maybe addressing Esquiva Falcão’s pointers could also work out great for the former UFC middleweight champ for his future fights.

Watch This Story: Alex Pereira Left In Tears After Israel Adesanya Knocks Him Out At UFC 287