Alex Pereira Makes White House Rejection Public With Dana White Picture

UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira makes a cryptic post hinting at being snubbed by Dana White for UFC White House.

Alex Pereira Makes White House Rejection Public With Dana White Picture

Alex Pereira hints at Dana White for UFC White House snub (via MMA Mania)

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The 2026 UFC White House event is expected to be a landmark moment for the sport, as it would mark the first combat sports event ever held at the White House. The historic setting has raised expectations for major star involvement. Alex Pereira has been viewed as a strong candidate due to his star power and knockout ability. He recently hinted at UFC CEO Dana White after suggesting he was denied a spot.

Pereira most recently became a three-time UFC champion at UFC 320, where he knocked out Magomed Ankalaev to reclaim the light heavyweight title. The victory marked a significant rebound following his loss at UFC 313, which had temporarily stalled his momentum. That defeat dropped Pereira to tenth in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, while the championship win propelled him back into the top five.

Speculation around Pereira’s potential involvement in the White House card intensified after both he and Jon Jones expressed interest in a possible superfight at the 2026 event. The matchup was widely viewed as fitting for such a historic stage. Interest recently increased further when ‘Poatan’ shared a photo alongside Dana White, which carried a cryptic caption and fueled speculation about his plans.

Looks like the White House event is a NO GO!

Alex Pereira via Instagram

Pereira was also recently involved in controversy with White in the lead-up to UFC 320. He had publicly accused the UFC and its leadership of showing him disrespect ahead of the event. The situation escalated briefly before being reversed. The Brazilian champion, however, later backtracked on those comments and claimed that his social media account was hacked.

Despite that incident, White has largely remained supportive of ‘Poatan’ throughout his rapid rise in the UFC. That stance was reinforced when White responded to trash talk from Ankalaev, who claimed Pereira had declined a rematch. White dismissed the allegation and reaffirmed that Pereira has never refused a fight or challenger at any point in his professional career.

The White House card gained further attention after US President Donald Trump announced that multiple title fights were planned for the historic event. The update reinforced expectations of a championship-heavy lineup designed to showcase elite talent. In that context, Alex Pereira stands out as one of the most marketable champions on the current UFC roster, thanks to his global appeal, making him a strong fit.

Alex Pereira’s heavyweight dreams get support from Robelis Despaigne

Alex Pereira has expressed interest in making his UFC heavyweight debut after his UFC 320 light heavyweight title win. He has been clear about wanting a potential superfight against Jon Jones at 265 pounds. His ambition to test himself in the heavyweight division is well known. However, UFC head honcho Dana White insists Pereira must defend his light heavyweight championship first.

Alex Pereira spars Robelis Despaigne
Alex Pereira and Robelis Despaigne (via Instagram)

Former UFC heavyweight Robelis Despaigne, standing 6’7″ with knockout power, was recently seen training with Pereira. The two sparred and traded strikes, showing Pereira’s ability to handle larger opponents. The session highlighted his readiness to face elite heavyweights. Despaigne recently stated that Pereira could put Jones to sleep if they ever fight.

Honestly, Pereira is a heavyweight, to me, he’s a heavyweight who cuts down to 205 pounds. He has heavyweight power, he weighs 240-something. He’s a heavyweight who cuts to 205, and he could even afford to make 185 if he wanted to. He can do whatever he wants. If Jon Jones makes a mistake, you know he can put him to sleep.

Robelis Despaigne via MMA Fighting

At 38 years old, Alex Pereira is in the latter stage of his career, making any heavyweight move a notable chapter. His decision will depend on timing, matchmaking, and continued success at light heavyweight. The shift represents a significant challenge against bigger opponents. However, the Brazilian superstar’s knockout power and global appeal make him a high-profile figure in any division.

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