Alex Pereira Knocking Out Heavyweights with Power Predicted by Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier

Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier highlight the dangers Alex Pereira brings to the dying heavyweight division ahead of UFC Freedom Fights 250.

Alex Pereira Knocking Out Heavyweights with Power Predicted by Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier

Alex Pereira's power highlighted by Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier (via MMA Mania, MMA Fighting)

In Short
  • Alex Pereira will face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title at UFC Freedom Fights 250.
  • Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier have praised Pereira's knockout power and physical attributes at heavyweight.
  • Pereira aims to become the first fighter in UFC history to win championships in three different weight classes.

The UFC heavyweight division is known for massive fighters and thrilling knockouts. That excitement will be on display at UFC Freedom Fights 250, where Alex Pereira faces Ciryl Gane for the interim belt. Joe Rogan and former fighter Dustin Poirier have recently highlighted the unique challenges Pereira brings at heavyweight. This matchup is among the most anticipated co‑main events in recent UFC history.

Pereira last competed at UFC 320, where he displayed his signature knockout power by defeating Magomed Ankalaev in the first round to reclaim the light heavyweight title. Following that victory, Pereira announced his intention to move up to the heavyweight division. The Brazilian knockout artist’s goal is to pursue a historic third-divisional championship, a feat no fighter has achieved in UFC history.

Several factors influenced Pereira’s move to 265 pounds. He vacated his light heavyweight belt and is set to face former interim champion Ciryl Gane, often seen as a gatekeeper in the division. Gane has tested many rising heavyweights, making this matchup a key measure of Pereira’s impact. Rogan and Poirier recently highlighted and discussed the dangers of Pereira’s knockout power at heavyweight.

I know Pereria’s power is going to translate to heavyweight; it is not going anywhere. He will be able to flatline heavyweights. He is probably 230, 240 walking around. That is a legit heavyweight. He is big, tall, long, so is Ciryl man, he is not even an athlete heavyweight, he is a legit heavyweight.

Dustin Poirier via PowerfulJRE

Pereira’s knockout power has been highlighted by commentators Rogan and Poirier. The Brazilian superstar has notable knockouts over Israel Adesanya, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr. His finishing ability earned him the nickname ‘Poatan’, meaning “stone hands” in Brazilian Portuguese. This combination of power, speed, and precision makes him a dangerous opponent in the cage.

When not in fight camp, Pereira often walked around at a larger frame than the middleweight or light heavyweight limits. Interestingly, he weighed 234 pounds just two weeks before his light heavyweight title fight against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320. This shows the heavyweight division aligns more closely with Poatan’s natural size. His ability to carry power at this weight makes the historical move logical.

Alex Pereira taking on Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 at the White House is a statement of how far he has come since his UFC debut in 2021. He achieved one of the fastest rises to two divisional championships in UFC history. This fight highlights his career trajectory. It remains to be seen if Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier’s comments about his knockout power hold true on June 14 at the South Lawn.

Alex Pereira’s physicality impresses Joe Rogan and Dustin Poirier

Alex Pereira is undoubtedly one of the most dominant fighters on the feet in the UFC. Known for his knockout power, he is widely feared for his striking prowess across divisions. His towering size and 79‑inch reach allow him to control distance and pick apart opponents. These attributes make him a particularly dangerous presence anywhere in the octagon.

Joe Rogan and Alex Pereira
Joe Rogan and Alex Pereira (via MMA Fighting)

Joe Rogan has consistently spoken highly of Alex Pereira, often expressing awe at the Brazilian superstar’s performances. He has praised Pereira’s striking intelligence and finishing ability across multiple weight classes. Rogan has also expressed concern over Pereira’s health when cutting all the way down to 185 pounds for middleweight bouts. He recently highlighted Poatan’s unique physical attributes and elite technique.

I told everybody he’d be a nightmare in the UFC. I don’t know what’s going on with that guy’s bone structure and DNA, but he’s a different thing. His intelligence is off the charts too, the way he throws calf kicks is elite.

Joe Rogan via PowerfulJRE

Now 38, Alex Pereira is at an age when many fighters consider retirement, yet he remains competitive. The Brazilian superstar has signed an eight-fight deal with the UFC, ensuring a continued presence at the highest level. His experience, power, and technical mastery keep him a top contender. Joe Rogan’s comments emphasized that Pereira’s combination of skill and athleticism makes him a constant threat.

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