Face to face with former UFC rival, Alex Poatan reveals special meaning of tattoos

Alex Poatán He is UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Close to defending the champion title against Khalil rountree No. UFC 307 next Saturday (5), Alex Poatán came face to face with his old enemy, Anthony Smith. However, as both have already resolved their differences, the topic of the day ended up being the tattoos and traditional Brazilian face painting at the weigh-in ceremonies.

The meeting between the fighters took place at a tattoo studio in Salt Lake City and was part of the recording of an interview for the Anthony Smith at 'ESPN' North American. During the conversation, the 'Lionheart' asked about the meaning of Poatan's tattoos and asked him to explain them.

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One of the most striking symbols on the Brazilian body are the UFC and Glory belts marked on their biceps. Alex explained the importance that these representations carry.

“It’s important to me because it’s something I achieved and it will stay with me for the rest of my life. It’s part of my story, it’s a symbol of everything I’ve done,” said Poatan.

Although the designs on the belts carry a lot of symbolism for Alex, he admits that most of his tattoos don't have a deep meaning and that he gets them just because he thinks they look cool.

“I think dragons were popular… Everyone was making dragons, it was all the rage at the time, so I made a dragon. It doesn’t have any specific meaning,” the champion added.

Face paint

In addition to talking about his tattoos, Alex Poatán He also explained the representation of the traditional face paintings he usually uses in weighing ceremonies.

“The animals represent everything, the indigenous side, the indigenous motifs, the designs. It means strength, a symbol of war,” he concluded.

Rivalry between Alex Poatan and Anthony Smith

The feud between the two fighters began when Alex Poatán moved up from middleweight (83,9 kg) to light heavyweight (up to 93 kg), a category of Anthony Smith. 'Lionheart', who also works as a commentator, opined that the Brazilian would not be as lethal in his new category.

The analysis was not well received by Poatan, who accused Anthony Smith of being 'frustrated' for never having won a UFC belt. From then on, the athletes intensified the provocations, with the Brazilian even challenging the American to a grappling duel worth R$250 thousand.

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