VIDEO: New champion Strickland meets Poatan backstage at UFC 328 and declares: 'He's going to make history'

Alex Poatán for Strickland's corner in the main fight of the UFC 312. Photo: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

On a collision course with Cyryl Gane, Alex Poatán He was struck by huge waves of positive energy while watching his friend. Sean Strickland shock the world and regain the middleweight crown (up to 83,9 kg) in the early hours of this Sunday (10) against Khamzat Shimaev, in the main fight of the UFC 328Aiming to become the first fighter in history to win Ultimate belts in three weight classes, the São Paulo native met with the new champion backstage at the event and, as usual, was showered with praise.

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VIDEO: Alex Poatan celebrates Sean Strickland's historic victory against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328

The American was fortunate enough to meet the Brazilian, accompanied by his children and coach Plínio Cruz, shortly after dueling with the Chechen for 25 minutes. In good spirits, Strickland showed joy and said that the Pataxó Indian will win. Cyryl Gane No. UFC White House.

“Alex, the man himself! Legend f*** right here. This man is going to make history. Three belts, he's going to make history! Brazilians, this is Alex Oliveira,” said the new champion, who had Poatan's support during his preparation to face Chimaev.

Sean Strickland had high praise for Alex Pereira after his #UFC328 win‼️ pic.twitter.com/93hEto81C3

- SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 10, 2026

Poatan has already knocked out Strickland.

A. Poatan (left) surpassed S. Strickland (right) in the UFC 276. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc

Currently the UFC's biggest star, Alex arrived in the MMA world as a significant name due to his impressive achievements in Glory, the world's leading kickboxing organization. Since then, he has had unforgettable fights in the octagon, such as against Strickland himself. Back in his middleweight days (up to 83,9 kg), the Brazilian had no difficulty knocking out the American in the first round. The victory secured him the number one contender spot. He would win. Israel adesanya later, he would reach the top of the sport for the first time.