Recently crowned Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira captured the title against Jamahal Hill at UFC 300 before an injury sidelined him. However, he’s clearly not one to face into the background. A recent video shows him back in the cage, engaged in an intense sparring session with Guram Mestvirishvili, an MMA fighter from Georgia. It showcases Alex Pereira, the former kickboxing champion, who takes down Mestvirishvili, also known as Kratos, in a surprising training session.
However, while Pereira appeared to be taking it easy at practice with minimal effort in his punches, his sparring partner seemed eager for a more intense challenge. The video featuring Alex Pereira shows him initially holding back during practice. However, his sparring partner craved a more intense challenge. Pereira, ever the competitor, responded in a way that left his partner bruised and bleeding.
View this post on Instagram
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
This incident raises an interesting point. There’s an unwritten rule in MMA that fighters typically avoid posting sparring footage. However, with no upcoming fight scheduled, Pereira wasn’t bound by this tradition. As a result, the clip has certainly grabbed the attention of fans worldwide, who have taken to the comments to express their thoughts in a humorous manner.
Fans react to Alex Pereira’s brutal sparring session
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite his intimidating look, Alex Pereira is always very polite to his fans, known by his nickname ‘Poatan.’ However, for his opponents, he becomes a nightmare, making him a lethal persona with a long following. The video uploaded by the famous Instagram MMA page @homeoffight features a hilarious comment section that left everyone speechless.
Taking a closer look, the video first caught the attention of Irish bare-knuckle fighter, Kyle McElroy, who emphasized Pereira wasn’t using his full power. He commented, “He was holding 80% back till buddy started getting heroic.” Another fan chimed in, That’s Pereira’s sparring partner who wants it, commented, ” Ask and you shall receive.”
Meanwhile, another fan was impressed by Pereira’s sparring partner, Guram Mestvirishvili. He commented, “Dana sign that man he could take Alex Pereira’s left hook!” Another fan, on the lighter side, laughed at Mestvirishvili’s choice to jump into sparring with Pereira, commenting, “Well deserved! He started it, Alex finished it.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In contrast, one fan compared Pereira and his sparring partner, commenting, “5’10 beast vs 6’4 freak? Who’s the real menace for standing in the pocket?” Another fan simply admired both fighters, their height differences notwithstanding. A more extreme fan referenced the sparring session between Sean Strickland and social media influencer Sneako, where Strickland brutally beat him and was trolled by fans and even Joe Rogan. He commented, ” Dude has been hanging with Strickland too.”
Overall, Alex Pereira’s recent video showcases his readiness to face a new challenge and embark on a new journey. His recent statements regarding a move to the heavyweight division are further reinforced by the energy and focus displayed in the video. If he does move in the weight class, who would you like to see him fight, Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall? Share your thoughts in the comments below!