Alex Poatán in UFC fight entrance Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
Alex Poatán shared behind the scenes footage of his preparation for the light heavyweight (up to 93kg) belt fight against Khalil Rountree Jr., at UFC 307. In a video released after the victory, the Brazilian exposed the difficulties he faced in cutting weight, while fighting an infection and other injuries.
The exhaustion described by the champion can be explained by the intense activity in the UFC in recent years, with nine fights in less than three years.
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“I had to take antibiotics. There’s even a video showing how bad I was. I even said in the video that I would only show it if I won the fight,” Poatan revealed in a press conference.
The video in question shows the fighter visibly weakened during the weight cutting process.
Injuries and illness hampered Poatan
The combination of illness, injuries and a grueling fight schedule tested the fighter's resilience.
“I also tore the ligament in my little finger, the same one I broke. I’ve been through a lot! Of course the fight was difficult, but what I went through to come here and put on this show. I’m very proud of myself today,” declared the champion.
Poatan's victory over Rountree Jr. was marked by a comeback, with the Brazilian knocking out his opponent in the final rounds after losing the first two.
With his health weakened and his body punished by the fights, Alex announced that he intends to slow down and take better care of himself.
Alex Pereira has shared footage of his very challenging weight cut prior to his #UFC307 fight with Khalil Rountree Jr.
Pereira was sick and taking antibiotics in the build up which would have affected his ability to cut weight.
Pereira's YT channel
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) October 14, 2024
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