Veteran points out weakness in Alex Poatan that could be exploited by Khalil Rountree at UFC 307: 'Dangerous'

Poatan defends the light heavyweight title at UFC 307. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufcbrasil

This Saturday (5), Alex Poatán enters the octagon in search of another defense of the light heavyweight belt (up to 93 kg) against Khalil Rountree Jr. in the main fight of UFC 307, in Salt Lake City (USA). The fight promises to be played standing up, but, for Stephen Thompson, there is a detail that could unbalance the duel in favor of the challenger: Poatan's aggressive stance.

Thompson, one of the UFC's greatest stand-up references, commented on Poatan's style in an interview with 'Submission Radio'. The veteran, who will also be in action in UFC 307 in fight against Joaquin buckley, highlighted that, although the champion is widely considered the best striker today, his offensive approach can expose a dangerous vulnerability, especially against a fighter like Khalil rountree.

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“It didn’t work for him when he fought Izzy (Israel adesanya). He was taking hits, but he wasn't dodging, he was still in front trying to strike, he got hit and went down. If you're there with another striker, especially Khalil rountree, who is a very powerful guy, this could be dangerous,” Thompson recalled.

Despite criticism of Poatan's approach, Thompson is quick to acknowledge the champion's talent and devastating accuracy.

“I think he’s the best right now, and that’s because he’s really, really good. And on top of that, he’s got a big name, right? He’s one of the most popular guys in the UFC. He’s very calm when he’s out there, which is very rare to see in this sport. Even if he’s in the heat of the fight, even if he’s hurt, he stays focused on what he has to do and he gets it done. I think in terms of accuracy, he’s on point, knocking everybody out with that left hook,” Thompson added, highlighting one of Alex Pereira’s most lethal weapons.

UFC 307

Alex Poatán seeks to defend the light heavyweight title (up to 93 kg) against Khalil rountree in the main fight of UFC 307, this Saturday (5), in Salt Lake City (USA).

Yes, Stephen Thompson tries to rediscover the path to victories against Joaquin buckley, in the last fight of the preliminary card.

Learn about Alex 'Poatan' Pereira's journey from his days in the tire shop to UFC stardom