UFC fans were shocked when the super fight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira seemed closer than ever—but there is a major obstacle in the way.

The anticipation for a potential Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira superfight has reached an all-time high. Fans and analysts alike have speculated for months about whether this dream matchup could become a reality. With both fighters holding championship status in the UFC, a clash between them would be one of the biggest fights in combat sports history. However, despite the excitement surrounding the possibility, a significant hurdle remains that could prevent this fight from happening anytime soon.

Why Fans Are Eager for Jones vs. Pereira

A potential fight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira is captivating for several reasons. Both fighters have dominated their respective divisions, and their unique fighting styles could create a legendary showdown inside the Octagon.

1. Jon Jones – The Unstoppable Heavyweight Champion

Jon Jones is widely considered one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. Holding victories over some of the most dangerous fighters in UFC history, he cemented his legacy in the light heavyweight division before making a successful transition to heavyweight. His dominant win over Ciryl Gane to capture the UFC heavyweight championship proved that he remains a force to be reckoned with, even after a long layoff.

Jones is known for his elite fight IQ, unorthodox striking, and world-class wrestling. His ability to adapt and neutralize his opponents has made him nearly unbeatable in the UFC. A fight against Alex Pereira would test whether his skills can hold up against one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport.

2. Alex Pereira – The Knockout Artist with Championship Pedigree

On the other side, Alex Pereira has taken the UFC by storm with his incredible power and striking precision. A former GLORY kickboxing champion, Pereira quickly rose through the middleweight division, defeating Israel Adesanya to become the UFC middleweight champion. After moving up to light heavyweight, he captured another title, proving that his power translates across weight classes.

Pereira’s ability to knock out opponents with a single strike makes him a serious threat to anyone, even a fighter as experienced as Jon Jones. His striking accuracy, combined with his ability to control distance, makes him one of the most feared stand-up fighters in the UFC. A fight against Jones would test whether he can handle an elite grappler and well-rounded MMA veteran.

The Major Obstacle Preventing This Superfight

Despite the excitement surrounding this potential matchup, there is one major obstacle that could stand in the way: Jon Jones’ Injury and Recovery Timeline.

1. Jon Jones’ Injury and Long Layoff

In late 2023, Jon Jones suffered a severe pectoral injury, forcing him to withdraw from his scheduled title defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295. The injury required surgery, and his expected recovery time pushed his return deep into 2024.

The UFC had originally planned a Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic heavyweight title fight, which was seen as a legacy-defining bout for both fighters. With Jones sidelined, the division has been in limbo, and there is no confirmed date for his return. If Jones’ injury recovery takes longer than expected, it could push back any potential fight with Pereira.

2. Will Pereira Move to Heavyweight?

Another challenge is whether Alex Pereira is willing to move up to heavyweight to face Jones. Pereira currently holds the UFC light heavyweight title, and he has not officially committed to moving up in weight. Although he has expressed interest in fighting Jon Jones, stepping up to heavyweight is a significant challenge.

The extra weight and power of UFC heavyweights could present problems for Pereira, who relies on speed and precision in his striking. He would need to bulk up and adjust his fighting style to deal with Jones’ grappling and size advantage.

3. UFC’s Plans for Jon Jones and Alex Pereira

Even if both fighters are interested, the UFC must also approve the fight. Dana White and the UFC matchmakers may have different plans for both champions.

• The UFC still wants Jones vs. Miocic, as it is a legacy fight that has been years in the making.

• Tom Aspinall and other contenders in the heavyweight division are waiting for their title shots.

• Jamahal Hill and other light heavyweight contenders could challenge Pereira before he moves up.

What Would Happen If They Fought? A Breakdown of Styles

If the fight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira were to happen, how would it play out? Let’s break down their strengths and potential paths to victory.

Jon Jones’ Path to Victory

1. Wrestling and Ground Control – Jones is one of the best wrestlers in the UFC, and if he takes Pereira down, he could dominate the fight.

2. Reach Advantage – Jones has an incredible reach, which he uses effectively to keep opponents at bay and land long-range strikes.

3. Fight IQ – Jones is a master at adapting his game plan mid-fight, exploiting weaknesses in his opponents.

Alex Pereira’s Path to Victory

1. One-Punch Knockout Power – Pereira has the ability to end fights with one clean shot, making him extremely dangerous.

2. Kickboxing Expertise – His striking is among the best in MMA, with technical precision and deadly leg kicks.

3. Pressure Fighting – Pereira excels at walking opponents down and forcing them to engage on his terms.

Will This Fight Ever Happen?

The possibility of Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira remains uncertain. While the fight would be a blockbuster event, the obstacles—including Jones’ recovery, Pereira’s weight class decision, and UFC’s matchmaking priorities—could delay or prevent it from happening altogether.

However, if the stars align and both fighters agree, this could go down as one of the biggest fights in UFC history. Would Pereira’s power be too much for Jones, or would Jones’ experience and wrestling be the deciding factor? Fans can only hope that this dream fight becomes a reality.

Conclusion: A Superfight Worth Waiting For

The prospect of Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira is one of the most exciting debates in MMA today. While there are significant obstacles, the fight remains a possibility that could shake up the UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.

For now, fans will have to wait and see if Jon Jones recovers in time and if Alex Pereira is willing to step up to the heavyweight division. Until then, speculation and excitement will continue to build, with UFC fans hoping for one of the biggest fights the sport has ever seen.