Alex Pereira, the reigning light-heavyweight champion, has garnered significant acclaim from fellow former middleweight title holder, Luke Rockhold, marking a complete reversal of Rockhold`s previous less-than-complimentary views. This shift comes in the wake of Pereira`s stunning performance at UFC 320.
Pereira recently defended his light-heavyweight title with a first-round knockout victory over Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320, and is now reportedly considering a move to the heavyweight division. Throughout his career, he was often perceived as a one-dimensional striker, lacking proficiency in grappling. However, his latest win demonstrated his ability to overcome perceived weaknesses, further cementing his legacy.
Luke Rockhold, who once held the same middleweight title as Pereira, has publicly acknowledged a significant change of heart. Despite previously echoing criticisms about Pereira’s limited skill set, Rockhold now believes the two-division champion has undeniably secured his place in the annals of UFC history.
Luke Rockhold Praises Alex Pereira as a UFC Legend
Rockhold, who also competed in the light-heavyweight division after his middleweight reign, shared his profound admiration for the Brazilian fighter in a recent interview. He admitted his earlier skepticism, now declaring Pereira a “gangster” and praising his unwavering confidence and tenacity.
Rockhold stated, “I used to hate on Alex Pereira, but the man is a gangster. It’s all about confidence. It’s all about courage. He has it. He truly has it. I can`t hate on the man anymore. He’s one of the GOATs.” He continued, “He carries the same mindset every time. He doesn`t have a ground game, but he`s got incredible courage. No more hate. Alex, God bless, you’re a gangster. He`s one of the best champs of all time. Honestly, it`s impressive.”
Luke Rockhold`s Previous Reservations About Alex Pereira
This recent praise stands in stark contrast to Rockhold`s perspective in 2022. During a brief period contemplating retirement, he suggested he might be tempted back to the octagon if Pereira were to dethrone Israel Adesanya, famously referring to it as a `free belt` due to Pereira`s supposed vulnerability against wrestlers.
At that time, Rockhold remarked in an interview, “If I get inspired, if someone inspires me to get back in it… you never know. That Brazilian dude winning the title, Alex Pereira. He’s going to have every wrestler in the entire game just chomping at the bit to get that guy. Let’s go. Let’s get the free belt.” He did, however, acknowledge the formidable challenge posed by other top contenders, adding, “The only thing is you have to fight Robert Whittaker or something in between, and that would really hurt. To win or lose to Robert Whittaker, that really hurts. It’s going to hurt, we’re going to fight.”
