Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka stepped up on two weeks’ notice to headline UFC 303 after Conor McGregor pulled out. Both are coming off victories at UFC 300 after the former TKOed the latter in the main event of UFC 295. Stakes are higher now, mainly due to being on International Fight Week. The Brazilian recently assessed his plans honestly if things don’t go his way.
Pereira’s Rematch Request
Even though Pereira is the favorite, per oddsmakers, several fighters have picked Prochazka to spring an upset. Due to the relatively short-notice nature of the fight due to McGregor’s pullout, Israel Adesanya has predicted a slow-paced fight, with Prochazka winning in the latter rounds. The Brazilian also spoke about what he would like to happen if he lost to the Czech Republican.
“In case Jiri wins Saturday, I think it makes more sense for the organization for us to have a rematch. A lot of guys on the line, but I think in terms of making a fight, that makes more sense,” said Pereira, who revealed that the UFC has not promised him an immediate rematch if he loses. The Brazilian has become a big star in the UFC, and thus, the promotion might tend to his wishes.
However, the promotion will go to UAE for UFC 308 in October, where they must put Magomed Ankalaev in a title fight. Ankalaev has previewed the fight at UFC 303, giving both an equal chance of winning. Moreover, he stated that the light heavyweight title picture would be clear after the International Fight Week PPV.
Nonetheless, the scheduling of Pereira vs. Prochazka at UFC 303 shows that the UFC sees the Brazilian as a superstar, only below Conor McGregor. With a purse of $5 million plus for the upcoming PPV, the Brazilian is one of the highest-paid. However, he revealed he would be 37 soon and only have a few more fights left.
Also Read: UFC 303: Who Will Be Referee and Judges for Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka II?
