The UFC heavyweight division is in a state of flux, and a former champion believes Alex Pereira is poised to capitalize on the chaos. After Jon Jones's retirement, Tom Aspinall was crowned the undisputed champion, but his reign has been marred by an eye injury sustained during a no-contest against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. This injury has sidelined Aspinall, leaving the division in limbo. But here's where it gets controversial...
Former Strikeforce champion Josh Thomson suggests the UFC might introduce an interim heavyweight title fight, mirroring the situation in the lightweight division. Thomson predicts a clash between Ciryl Gane and Alex Pereira for the interim title. This would give Pereira the chance to make history as the first triple champion in UFC history.
Thomson's prediction stems from Aspinall's uncertain recovery timeline, as revealed in his recent medical report. On his "Weighing In" podcast, Thomson discussed the implications for the heavyweight division, stating that, with Aspinall unable to compete, Pereira could step in. "I really believe that it would be Alex vs Gane," Thomson said, adding that there is recent footage of Pereira sparring with heavyweights. "With Tom Aspinall not willing to fight, Alex steps in to save the day — because that’s what he does — and becomes an even bigger star."
But, hold on, there's a twist! Pereira has his sights set on a different prize: a superfight against Jon Jones at the White House. Pereira expressed his desire to move up to heavyweight after reclaiming the light heavyweight title, but he bypassed Aspinall and Gane, instead challenging Jones. Jones initially responded positively, reversing his retirement to target this event. And this is the part most people miss...
However, UFC President Dana White seems hesitant to make this fight happen, despite Jones's eagerness.
What do you think? Would you like to see Alex Pereira fight Ciryl Gane for an interim UFC heavyweight title while Tom Aspinall recovers, or should the UFC push for the superfight between Pereira and Jones? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Is Pereira ready for the heavyweight division?
