Alex Pereira Posts His Knockout Loss to Israel Adesanya to Hype Up Old Rival’s UFC Return

UFC interim heavyweight title challenger Alex Pereira pens down heartfelt message to Israel Adesanya as the latter returns to the Octagon.

Alex Pereira Posts His Knockout Loss to Israel Adesanya to Hype Up Old Rival’s UFC Return

Alex Pereira sends words of support to Israel Adesanya (via MMA Mania)

In Short
  • Alex Pereira shared a video of his knockout loss to Israel Adesanya to support him ahead of UFC Seattle.
  • Adesanya is looking to end a three-fight losing streak against rising contender Joe Pyfer.
  • Pereira is set to face Ciryl Gane in June 2026 as he aims for a historic third divisional championship.

Alex Pereira’s rise from GLORY Kickboxing champion to two-division UFC titleholder stands among the sport’s most remarkable ascents. His trajectory, however, was deeply shaped by a defining rivalry with Israel Adesanya, spanning both kickboxing and mixed martial arts. As Adesanya now looks to return to winning ways at UFC Seattle, Pereira has recently offered public words of support ahead of the bout.

Their rivalry reached its peak in the UFC with two high-stakes middleweight title fights that significantly impacted both careers. Pereira first faced Adesanya at UFC 281, where he secured a fifth-round TKO after a late surge to capture the championship. The 2023 rematch at UFC 287 saw Adesanya reclaim the title with a decisive second-round knockout, which was also Stylebender’s last victory in the promotion.

Since their last meeting in 2023, Pereira has moved up to the light heavyweight division and established himself as a dominant two-time champion. In contrast, Adesanya lost his next three fights following that victory and now finds himself in a difficult stretch. He is set to face rising contender Joe Pyfer at UFC Seattle as he looks to return to the win column, setting the stage for Poatan’s recent message.

Saturday is fight night once again. Much respect to Israel Adesanya — we’ve shared the octagon and moments that became part of my journey. That loss taught me a lot; it pushed me to evolve not only as a fighter, but as a man. I grew, matured, and used it as fuel to reach a higher level in the sport and in life. Regardless of rivalry, I know what it means to step in there — the years of work, the pressure, the sacrifice. That’s why I wish you a great fight. Go in focused and show your best.We keep evolving. See you at the top CHAMA.

Alex Pereira via Instagram

The UFC Seattle bout carries major importance for Adesanya following a difficult run since losing his title. He first dropped the belt in a decision loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 293, before falling short in a title opportunity against Dricus Du Plessis via submission at UFC 305. His most recent defeat came at the hands of #2 middleweight Nassourdine Imavov by knockout in February 2025, further raising the stakes.

Since their last fight, both Pereira and Adesanya have consistently expressed mutual respect for one another. Adesanya has publicly followed Pereira’s light heavyweight run, even reacting to his performances on his YouTube channel FREESTYLEBENDER. On the other hand, the Brazilian star has stated that he holds no grudges from their rivalry and has shown openness toward potentially training together.

While UFC Seattle remains a high-stakes moment for Israel Adesanya as he looks to revive his career, Alex Pereira faces a major test of his own in June 2026. He is scheduled to take on Ciryl Gane at the upcoming UFC White House as he continues his pursuit of a historic third divisional championship. The outcomes of these bouts could play a defining role in shaping the next chapter for both ‘Stylebender’ and ‘Poatan’.

How is Alex Pereira’s star power setting back UFC fighter pay discussions?

The UFC has long faced scrutiny over fighter pay and overall compensation compared to other combat sports. Despite this, CEO Dana White has maintained that fighters must prove themselves and build their own brand to earn more. He has emphasized that the promotion offers a global platform, bonuses, and significant visibility that athletes can use to increase their value over time.

Charles Oliveira predicts Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira
Alex Pereira (via X)

As one of the promotion’s biggest active stars, Alex Pereira has seen his financial profile rise, with his net worth estimated at $4-5 million. Despite ongoing debate over fighter pay in the UFC, Pereira has notably avoided publicly criticizing the structure, a stance also seen among several champions. This context framed former champion Michael Bisping’s recent comments, where he highlighted Pereira’s growth.

I imagine he earned something around 3 million and 4 million dollars per fight. With this new contract, which will probably lock him up for the rest of his combat sports life. It’s probably gonna be around 5-6 million dollars, who knows. Alex Pereira is not complaining, he is happy. I know that many people are talking about the UFC recently, but the champions, they’re not complaining. And I wasn’t back in my day.

Michael Bisping via his YouTube channel

Alex Pereira is now reportedly entering a new eight-fight contract with the UFC at 38 years old, signaling a long-term commitment at the elite level. The deal reflects his continued value as a champion and headline attraction, reinforcing his standing within the promotion. It also aligns with Michael Bisping’s assessment of Pereira’s trajectory amid the broader discussion on fighter pay.

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