The next super fight in the UFC is Alex Pereira vs. Jon Jones. Alex could become the first three-weight champion.

The UFC has seen its fair share of super fights, but few matchups carry the historical weight of Alex Pereira vs. Jon Jones. With this fight, Pereira has the opportunity to achieve what no fighter in UFC history has ever done: become the first three-division UFC champion. On the other hand, Jon Jones, widely regarded as the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, aims to further cement his legacy as the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion.

This potential showdown is more than just a fight; it’s a battle between two elite fighters with contrasting styles, immense power, and legacies on the line. Let’s break down everything about this monumental clash, including the stakes, stylistic matchups, and what it would mean for the UFC.

Alex Pereira’s Historic Journey to Three Divisions

Few fighters in UFC history have been as dominant across multiple divisions as Alex Pereira. The Brazilian knockout artist initially made his name in kickboxing, where he was a multiple-time Glory Kickboxing champion. His devastating power translated seamlessly into MMA, where he quickly ascended through the ranks.

Pereira won the UFC middleweight championship after defeating his longtime rival Israel Adesanya. After losing the title in the rematch, he moved up to light heavyweight, where he captured gold by defeating Jiří Procházka. Now, he sets his sights on the heavyweight division, aiming to dethrone Jon Jones and make history as the UFC’s first three-division champion.

Why Alex Pereira Can Win at Heavyweight

Pereira’s key to success has always been his striking, particularly his elite-level kickboxing. His ability to generate knockout power with both his hands and legs makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone, regardless of weight class. Moving up to heavyweight, Pereira will bring:

• Precision striking with one of the most feared left hooks in MMA

• Unmatched knockout power that has stopped elite fighters across two divisions

• Elite footwork and range control to avoid wrestling-heavy threats

However, Jon Jones presents an entirely different challenge compared to any of Pereira’s previous opponents.

Jon Jones: The Greatest Fighter of All Time?

Few fighters in MMA history have accomplished as much as Jon Jones. The reigning UFC heavyweight champion was already a dominant force in the light heavyweight division, where he defeated legends like Daniel Cormier, Alexander Gustafsson, and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua. After moving up to heavyweight, he made an emphatic statement by submitting Ciryl Gane to claim the belt.

Jones is known for his unparalleled fight IQ, wrestling, and adaptability. Unlike Pereira, he is not a knockout specialist but rather a well-rounded mixed martial artist with the ability to dictate where the fight takes place. His advantages over Alex Pereira include:

• Elite wrestling that could neutralize Pereira’s striking

• Incredible fight IQ and ability to adjust mid-fight

• Cardio and endurance that have allowed him to dominate five-round battles

• Experience against high-level grapplers and strikers alike

Can Jones Handle Pereira’s Power?

While Jones has a legendary chin, he has rarely faced an opponent with Alex Pereira’s knockout ability. If Pereira can keep the fight standing and land clean shots, he has a legitimate path to victory. However, Jones’ ability to dictate the pace, clinch, and grapple could force Pereira into uncomfortable positions.

Key Factors in the Fight

For Alex Pereira vs. Jon Jones, several key factors will determine the outcome of this historic battle:

1. Striking vs. Grappling

Pereira’s best chance to win lies in keeping the fight standing. If he can avoid Jones’ wrestling and takedowns, he has the tools to finish the fight with his striking. However, if Jones successfully closes the distance and forces the fight to the ground, Pereira could struggle.

2. Size and Strength Differences

Jones has been a natural light heavyweight for most of his career but has bulked up significantly for heavyweight. Pereira, despite moving up, will still be the smaller fighter in terms of natural frame and wrestling ability. How he handles the physicality of Jones will be a critical factor.

3. Fight IQ and Adaptability

Jon Jones is known for his ability to make adjustments mid-fight. If Pereira’s power doesn’t faze him, Jones will likely change his strategy to tire him out with wrestling and clinch work.

4. Five-Round Cardio

Jones has proven his ability to maintain a high pace over five rounds. Pereira has been in multiple five-round fights but has never faced an opponent who can grind him out like Jones can. If Pereira doesn’t secure an early knockout, the later rounds could become increasingly difficult for him.

What This Fight Means for the UFC

A True Super Fight for the Ages

This fight represents one of the biggest showdowns in UFC history. Super fights between champions of different divisions have always been a major draw, but a battle for the first-ever three-weight championship adds an extra layer of significance.

If Alex Pereira wins, he becomes an all-time great, possibly surpassing legends like Conor McGregor, Georges St-Pierre, and Daniel Cormier in terms of multi-division success.

If Jon Jones wins, it solidifies his status as the greatest fighter ever, proving that he can handle one of the most dangerous strikers the sport has ever seen.

Financial and Viewership Impact

This fight would likely generate massive pay-per-view sales, drawing interest from both hardcore MMA fans and casual viewers. Jon Jones remains one of the biggest stars in combat sports, while Alex Pereira’s knockout ability has made him a fan favorite. The UFC stands to make millions from a fight of this magnitude.

Could This Be Jones’ Final Fight?

If Jon Jones defeats Alex Pereira, there’s speculation that he may retire as the undisputed greatest of all time (GOAT). After years of dominance and controversy, he would have little left to prove. However, a Pereira victory could set up an immediate rematch, extending both fighters’ legacies even further.

Final Prediction: Who Wins?

This fight is one of the toughest to call in UFC history. Both fighters have clear paths to victory:

• Alex Pereira wins if he lands a clean knockout punch before Jones takes control.

• Jon Jones wins if he survives the early storm and uses his wrestling to dominate.

While Pereira’s power is undeniable, Jones has always shown the ability to adapt and neutralize elite strikers. The most likely scenario is that Jon Jones weathers the storm, utilizes his wrestling, and secures a submission or ground-and-pound finish in the later rounds.

However, if Pereira can land one clean left hook, he could make history with the greatest knockout in UFC history.

Conclusion: A Fight for the Ages

Alex Pereira vs. Jon Jones is more than just a title fight—it’s a battle for legacy. Whether Pereira can defy the odds and become UFC’s first three-division champion or Jones continues his reign as the undisputed GOAT, this fight promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.