Alex Poatan may be getting closer to taking a historic step in the UFC. At least that's what Sean Strickland believes . The former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) of the organization showed up at the gym during a training session with the Brazilian and made it clear that he sees a bold change in the future of the current light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg).
During the visit, Strickland tried to "corner Poatan" to get some confirmation about the Brazilian's future plans. True to his reserved style, the champion didn't reveal much. When asked about a possible move up to the heavyweight division, the Native American replied curtly: "Maybe, I don't know." The answer, however, did not convince the American.
“No, maybe not. You’re going to do it,” Strickland retorted, asserting that the Brazilian should seek a third belt in a different weight class, something unprecedented in Ultimate history.
Sean Strickland thinks Alex Pereira is moving up to heavyweight for a third title 👀
🗣️ Alex: “Maybe, I don't know.”
🗣️ Sean: “No maybe. You're doing it.”
(via @AlexPereiraUFC ) pic.twitter.com/EkPzM9DlFg
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 22, 2026
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Poatan could face Carlos Ulberg in 2026 in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
If Strickland's prediction comes true, Poatan would have the chance to further expand his legacy. The Brazilian has already won the middleweight and light heavyweight titles, where he is currently the champion. A move to heavyweight would open the way for a direct title fight in one of the most traditional weight classes in MMA.
If he manages to repeat his success in another division, Alex Poatan would definitively join an elite group of legends, achieving something no other fighter has managed in the UFC. For now, the champion is focused on the present, leaving no room for speculation about his future in the organization.
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