Joe Rogan has proposed a possible explanation for Alex Pereira`s lackluster performance in his recent title defeat at UFC 313.
Pereira, known as “Poatan,” lost his light heavyweight championship to Magomed Ankalaev in a unanimous decision after a five-round fight where Ankalaev largely controlled the action. Pereira`s signature knockout power was absent, ending his streak of successful title defenses at three.
During a UFC London Fight Companion episode of his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan mentioned hearing that Pereira was hampered by both a hand injury and norovirus.
“They say he fought with a broken hand and norovirus against Ankalaev,” Rogan stated casually.
Norovirus is a gastrointestinal illness causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Pereira has not publicly addressed any health issues leading up to the March 8th pay-per-view, and Rogan didn`t elaborate, though he did wonder if Pereira`s busy fight schedule in 2024 might be taking a toll.
Rogan also recalled Pereira fighting through injuries in the past. “He fought with a broken toe before,” Rogan noted. “When he defeated Jiri Prochazka, his knee was messed up. He almost fell at the end of that fight because his knee gave out. He was practically fighting on one leg. He then had knee surgery, likely meniscus, given his quick return.”
Ankalaev, who entered the fight on a 13-fight unbeaten run, strategically used striking to neutralize Pereira, landing the most significant blow in the second round. He ultimately secured a unanimous decision victory and the UFC light heavyweight title.
Rogan acknowledged Ankalaev`s dominant performance.
“In the second round, Ankalaev rocked Pereira, who wasn`t the same afterward, becoming much more defensive,” Rogan observed. “A detailed analysis of Ankalaev’s striking against Pereira highlighted its high level, particularly how he controlled Pereira’s lead hand and angles.”
Pereira`s next steps are uncertain. The former two-division champion has quickly gained popularity in the UFC. A rematch with Ankalaev is a likely option if Pereira desires it, but the light heavyweight division is full of contenders, and Pereira has hinted at a potential move to heavyweight.
Rogan believes an immediate rematch is probable.
“They’re going to run it back, I’m sure,” Rogan predicted. “It’s the biggest fight in the division, assuming Pereira is healthy. But he might be fighting too often.”
