Jan Blachowicz is prepared to embark on another journey toward the light heavyweight championship in his next fight, expressing confidence in defeating Alex Pereira and compelling him to return to the middleweight division.
After experiencing his initial loss inside the octagon during his most recent bout, ‘Poatan’ concluded that it was time to explore a different weight class.
Despite ongoing clashes with Israel Adesanya on social media, ‘Poatan’s defeat against the middleweight champion served as the definitive conclusion to his time competing at 185lbs.
While arranging a trilogy fight between the long-standing rivals from the kickboxing world is considerably more challenging at this point, underestimating its possibility would not be wise.
Jan Blachowicz shares his thoughts before the match
During discussions about his upcoming match, Jan referred to his victories over Luke Rockhold and ‘The Last Stylebender,’ firmly asserting that a similar destiny awaits Alex.
Jan Blachowicz on Alex Pereira: “I think this is my job in the UFC sometimes… send him back to the lower [weight class]" 👀 #TheMMAHour
▶️ https://t.co/jQQjDN88S0 pic.twitter.com/EGGuJSsvft
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) May 22, 2023
“For sure he’s going to have power. But what do I always say? If you change weight category, you can spar with the bigger guys in your gym but when you fight, it’s completely different. Timing, speed, everything is different.
Three times I’ve fought with guys from the lower divisions and I won each one… [After this fight do I think Pereira will go back to middleweight?] I don’t know, this is something you’ll have to ask him.
We will see… I think this is my job [to send fighters back to their division], so I need to do it in the best way to send him back to the lower category.”
Since his unsatisfying draw with Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 282, this marks the Pole’s inaugural presence in the octagon. Excluding the split draw, the 40-year-old fighter has emerged victorious in six out of his last seven contests within the cage.
Alex Pereira to get a title shot if he wins
While the UFC has unveiled several highly anticipated matchups scheduled for later this year, Blachowicz vs. Pereira showdown stands out as the most prominent non-title fight in the light heavyweight division. However, what lies ahead for the victor?
According to the Polish fighter, the promotion has assured him a title opportunity if he manages to spoil the former middleweight’s debut at his new weight class.
Although no official announcements have been made, likely, Alex will also be granted a chance at championship gold if he emerges victorious at UFC 291 in July.
Given Pereira’s history with champion Jamahal Hill, their potential clash for the title would undoubtedly present an intriguing challenge for the current titleholder.
What are your thoughts regarding this? Let us know in the comment section below.
