Alex Pereira has expressed a clear preference for a superfight against Jon Jones, prioritizing this monumental clash over a more conventional path to further UFC history.
Having recently reclaimed the light heavyweight title—a remarkable achievement not seen since Jon Jones accomplished it in 2018—Pereira`s ambitions are once again set on higher goals within the sport.
After cementing his status as a two-time 205-pound champion following his successful transition from middleweight, “Poatan” is reportedly planning yet another divisional shift. This comes on the heels of UFC 320, where Pereira secured a stunning 80-second knockout victory over Magomed Ankalaev.
Post-fight, the Brazilian wasted no time in articulating his heavyweight aspirations. Instead of challenging the victor of the upcoming Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane bout, Pereira is keen on a high-profile “White House” superfight with Jones.
Daniel Cormier Assesses Tom Aspinall as a More Favorable Matchup for Alex Pereira Than Jon Jones
Pereira`s challenge has triggered a familiar debate, echoing past discussions when Jon Jones was perceived to avoid Tom Aspinall. Consequently, some within the MMA community have accused Pereira of “ducking” Aspinall.
However, Daniel Cormier, a prominent figure and analyst, refuted this notion. In a recent YouTube video, Cormier stated unequivocally that Jones presents a significantly tougher challenge for “Poatan” than Aspinall would.
“Tom Aspinall poses a very difficult matchup for anyone,” Cormier acknowledged.
He continued, “However, the fight with Jon Jones is, among all available options, the most challenging one for Pereira. This decision truly highlights Alex`s character and his willingness to face the ultimate test.”
Cormier further elaborated, “Alex deliberately called out the toughest possible opponent. This also reflects the current state of mixed martial arts, where, similar to Conor McGregor`s influence, people are increasingly beginning to prioritize the spectacle and prestige of a fight over the championship belt itself.”
Cormier concluded, “Currently, it would be quite straightforward for Alex to simply declare, `I want to fight Tom Aspinall.`”
Charles Oliveira Expresses Mixed Feelings About Potential Alex Pereira vs. Jon Jones Superfight
If Pereira`s wish to fight Jones in 2026 comes to fruition, he would undoubtedly receive support from a prominent fellow countryman, Charles Oliveira. However, the situation might not be as straightforward for Oliveira as previous allegiances have been.
Ahead of his own return to action at UFC Rio this Saturday, Charles Oliveira confessed to feeling “apprehensive” about a potential Pereira vs. Jones clash.
“Discussing Jon Jones is somewhat complex,” Oliveira stated in Portuguese (as translated by MMA Fighting), “because I admire him greatly.”
Oliveira detailed his long-standing respect: “Jon Jones was present during my very first fight, and he was there when I emerged as a breakthrough fighter. I was ranked second, and he was first. I hold immense admiration for him. He was also there for my second fight against Michael Chandler.”
He added, “It will undoubtedly be a fight where I`ll sit down and passionately cheer for Brazil, for `Poatan.` However, I`ll watch it with a degree of apprehension because Jon Jones is truly great.”