UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping questions Alex Pereira moving to heavyweight to fight Sergei Pavlovich.
Former UFC champion and commentator Michael Bisping has raised serious concerns about Alex Pereira and his upcoming heavyweight bout against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335.
The high-stakes clash is scheduled for December 12 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, serving as a major addition to an event headlined by a BMF title fight between Charles Oliveira and Diego Lopes.
Despite former champion Daniel Cormier advising Pereira to return to the 205-pound division, the Brazilian star is stepping up to heavyweight, prompting Bisping to question if this fight could spell the end of his career, according to information published by mmamania.
Alex Pereira Heavyweight Move Risks
Bisping clarified that he is a fan of Pereira, but he expressed worries regarding the stylistic matchup against natural heavyweights. The analyst noted that Pereira fights with a flat-footed style that relies heavily on devastating power rather than agility.
While that approach yielded massive success at middleweight and light heavyweight, Bisping warned that heavyweight opponents possess the size to absorb those heavy strikes and return punishing damage of their own.
Sergei Pavlovich Knockout Power
The threat level is significantly elevated by Pavlovich, who boasts an impressive record of 21 professional wins, with 16 victories coming by way of knockout. Bisping highlighted that despite past losses to Alexander Volkov and Tom Aspinall, Pavlovich remains one of the most dangerous knockout artists in the division.
If the Russian powerhouse delivers another devastating finish, Bisping believes it could lead to a career-ending retirement for the 39-year-old Brazilian star.
Financial Stakes And Future At UFC
Pereira has enjoyed a meteoric rise since joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 2021, capturing titles in two weight classes and maintaining an exceptionally active schedule with three title defenses in 2024 alone.
Those lucrative fight purses exceeding $5 million per fight rely heavily on his active status and marketability. A brutal loss at UFC 335 could severely damage his title picture aspirations and diminish his immense drawing power inside the promotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is UFC 335 featuring Alex Pereira vs Sergei Pavlovich?
UFC 335 is scheduled to take place on December 12 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, featuring the heavyweight clash between Alex Pereira and Sergei Pavlovich.
Why is Michael Bisping concerned about Alex Pereira at heavyweight?
Michael Bisping is concerned because Alex Pereira utilizes a flat-footed fighting style, and natural heavyweights like Sergei Pavlovich can absorb his power and potentially deliver a career-ending knockout.
What did Daniel Cormier advise Alex Pereira to do?
Daniel Cormier previously advised Alex Pereira to move back down to the 205-pound light heavyweight division instead of competing in the heavyweight weight class.
What is Sergei Pavlovich combat record?
Sergei Pavlovich holds 21 professional wins, with an impressive 16 of those victories coming by way of knockout against top-tier heavyweight competition.
