Friendships can bloom in the most unexpected places, even after getting sent to the shadow realm. Case in point as Alex Pereira and Sean Strickland, who once faced off as fierce rivals in the octagon, now, are teaming up for what might be the most intriguing training camp of 2024.
Pereira is gearing up for his third title defense. He is set to face Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City. But here’s where things get interesting. He is bringing in Strickland to help him prepare.
Pereira announced this surprising collaboration on his YouTube channel. He’s assembling quite the dream team for his camp. Along with Strickland, he’s got UFC middleweight Cesar Almeida and kickboxer Yousri Belgaroui. And let’s not forget his sister, Aline Pereira, who also joined the party.
But Strickland isn’t just another body in the gym. He’s known for having intense cardio as well as that constant jabs and teeps. In a fight taking place at over 4,000 feet elevation, cardio knowledge could be worth its weight in gold.
The fight against Rountree is no joke. Alex Pereira will be looking to extend his undefeated streak at 205 pounds. Meanwhile, Rountree’s riding a five-fight win streak of his own. It’s a classic striker vs striker matchup that’s got fans salivating.
Alex Pereira And Sean Strickland Show Mutual Respect To One Another
Pereira and Strickland, once fierce rivals, have become unlikely training partners and mutual admirers. Their story is a testament to the respect that can grow between warriors. Rewind to UFC 276 in 2022. Pereira unleashed a devastating first-round knockout on Strickland. It was the kind of loss that could breed resentment. But in a plot twist worthy of a Hollywood script, these two fighters found common ground.
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Fast forward to 2024, and fans find them regularly sparring together. Their recent training session, captured on video, set the MMA world abuzz. Strickland, still in awe of ‘Poatan’s’ power, called for a “scientific study” on the Brazilian’s punching prowess. Alex Pereira, in turn, expressed his pleasure in training with his “Brother.”
This budding bromance isn’t just for show. Alex Pereira was in Strickland’s corner during his epic five-round war against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297. Their journey since their 2022 bout reads like a success story for both.
Also Read: Team Robert Whittaker Provides Eye-Opening Insight On Sean Strickland Refusing To Fight At UFC 305
