Alex Poatan will have 'easy work' against Khalil Rountree at UFC 307, says former rival

Alex Poatán He is the current UFC light heavyweight champion. (Photo: Reproduction/Instagram)

The expectation for the belt defense of Alex Poatán No. UFC 307, next Saturday (5), is one of the biggest. The light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg.) will face Khalil rountree, a rising opponent, but who, in the view of many, does not represent a real threat to the Brazilian's reign. One of those who reinforce this favoritism is the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg.) and former rival, Sean Strickland.

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Partner of drills from Poatan, the American stated in an interview that his compatriot will have an 'easy job' against Rountree. According to him, his compatriot does not have the skills necessary to shock the world and become champion.

“I can’t see Khalil winning. He doesn’t have the tools to beat Alex. He doesn’t have better boxing, he doesn’t have better wrestling,” said Strickland, who was already knocked out by Poatan in 2022.

Poatan on another level?

'Tarzan', as he is known, did not hold back in his praise for his friend and former rival. For him, Poatan is on a higher level and there is no way Rountree can reverse the prognosis.

“I think it will be an easy job for Alex,” said the American.

Poatan, 37, is seeking his third consecutive title defense, while Rountree, 34, is riding a five-fight winning streak, all by knockout.

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