Brazilian · Contagem, Brazil · Born 7 July 1987Brazilian mixed martial artist and former kickboxer, two-division UFC champion known for his devastating striking power and knockout ability.
Alex Gomes Pereira was born in Contagem, Brazil in 1987. He grew up in poverty — working in construction and as a door-to-door salesperson before kickboxing changed his trajectory. He won GLORY Kickboxing world titles at middleweight and light heavyweight. He fought Israel Adesanya four times — twice in kickboxing and twice in MMA — beating him three times. It was his kickboxing record over Adesanya that earned him a UFC contract, bypassing the usual developmental process. He won the UFC Middleweight Championship in 2022 by knocking out Adesanya — his third defeat of the champion. He lost the title to Adesanya on a unanimous decision rematch in 2023 before moving to light heavyweight. He won the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship against Jamahal Hill in 2023 and has defended it multiple times with finishes. His knockout power — he knocked out four consecutive opponents in title fights — and his charismatic personality have made him one of the UFC's most compelling champions. He speaks no English but communicates through an interpreter — his post-fight speeches with translator Bruno Brazil became fan-favourite moments. He is the most powerful finisher in UFC light heavyweight history.
Becoming a two-division UFC champion by winning titles in both middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.
How They Played
Pereira is known for his devastating striking power and technical precision, utilizing his extensive kickboxing background to deliver powerful punches and kicks. His left hook is particularly feared, having earned him numerous knockout victories throughout his career. He combines excellent timing with explosive power, often ending fights with dramatic finishes.
Lasting Impact
Pereira has demonstrated the successful transition from elite-level kickboxing to championship-level mixed martial arts, proving that striking specialists can compete at the highest levels of MMA.
Career Honours
- UFC Light Heavyweight Champion (2023–present)
- UFC Middleweight Champion (2022–2023)
- GLORY Kickboxing Champion
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt
Brazilian Athletes