Pereira was still working at a tire shop and had serious
problems with alcoholism. That’s when he decided to enroll in
kickboxing — a decision that changed his life.
Since then, “Poatan” has achieved what seemed impossible for
someone who first put on gloves at the age of 21. After winning two
belts in Glory Kickboxing and the
UFC, he will seek something that no fighter has achieved to
date on June 14: a UFC title in a third weight class. To do this,
Poatan will have to beat Ciryl Gane
in the co-main event of of the
UFC White House card.
‘Something Very Special’
In an interview with UFC on Paramount+, “Poatan” highlighted the
symbolic weight of the possible achievement, classifying the belt
as something unique in his career. The Brazilian stressed that,
unlike other titles in the organization, this one would have a
special value because it represents his entire journey, marked by
challenges and overcoming obstacles to reach the top of the
sport.
“For me, it will be something very special. Unique,” Pereira said.
“This will only happen once, it’s a unique belt. Many have the UFC
belt, but this one is different, so it will symbolize everything
I’ve been through, all the difficulties to get there.”
A night that will only happen once 🫡
UFC former 2-division Champion @AlexPereiraUFC
is coming for the chance to fully symbolize EVERYTHING he’s been
through![
#UFCWhiteHouse | JUNE 14 | WATCH NOW: ] pic.twitter.com/6VvCR0JNIB— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount)
June 3, 2026