In the aftermath of Magomed Ankalaev‘s dominant performance against Johnny Walker at UFC Vegas 84, Alex Pereira, popularly known as “Poatan,” wasted no time expressing his aspirations for an active 2024. Taking to social media just a day after Ankalaev’s statement-making victory, Pereira announced his next target in the light heavyweight division: former titleholder Jamahal Hill.
In a post written in Portuguese, Pereira urged fans to shift their focus to the upcoming bout with Hill, assuring Ankalaev that he won’t be kept waiting for long. He emphasized his determination to set a new record by accomplishing two title defenses in the shortest time frame, a feat that would surpass the current record held by Ronda Rousey.
Despite Pereira’s eagerness to return to the Octagon, the UFC has not disclosed a specific date for his next fight. However, it is noted that the wait might be extended due to Hill’s current recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Hill, who last fought in January 2022 against Pereira’s teammate Glover Teixeira for the vacant title, has been on the sidelines as the title remained vacant for months. Pereira, seizing the opportunity, challenged ex-champion Jiri Prochazka at Madison Square Garden, securing victory via knockout and claiming the coveted light heavyweight title. The stage is now set for an intriguing clash between Pereira and Hill, as the Brazilian fighter aims to etch his name in the history books with an impressive title defense record.
