Alex Pereira Downplays Boxing Move, Cites Seven Fights Left on UFC Contract

Former two-division UFC champion Alex Pereira has poured cold water on the idea of competing in professional boxing anytime soon, pointing to his long-term contractual commitment to the UFC. Pereira addressed the topic ahead of longtime coach Plinio Cruz's scheduled bout in the squared circle for Misfits Boxing.

Speaking to Fred Talks Fighting with Cruz translating, as reported by MMA Fighting, Pereira was asked if he would consider stepping into the boxing ring, even after his mixed martial arts career concludes. Pereira revealed that he still has seven fights remaining on his current UFC contract. When questioned about whether a transition could happen if he quickly worked through those bouts, Pereira showed little enthusiasm for making the move.

"Poatan" recently attempted to capture a championship in a third weight class in June at UFC White House, where he took on Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title. Pereira was stopped in the second round and later expressed frustration with referee Herb Dean, blaming the official for permitting strikes to the back of his head.

Pereira is already set for his return to the Octagon. He will compete in his second heavyweight matchup against Sergei Pavlovich in a five-round co-main event at UFC 335 this December.