Ready for the heavy hitters! Poatan 'rocks' Xicão with a cross during training for UFC Casa Branca; watch the video.

Poatan celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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Alex PoatánBy all indications, he has already adapted to the heavyweight division (up to 120,2 kg). The Brazilian made his debut in the category against Cyryl Gane, in the co-main fight of UFC White House, in a fight valid for the interim belt. To further adapt to the new division, he intensified his training alongside Tallison Xicão, who has been experiencing firsthand the firepower of the 'Pataxó' fighter.

In a video posted on Instagram, Poatan appears sparring with Tallison Xicão, under the watchful eye of... Glover TeixeiraIn the images, the former light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg) dominates the center of the mat, while his compatriot simulates Gane's movements, exploring the corners.

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In one of the key moments of the recording, Poatan manages to corner Xicão and unleashes his powerful right hand, which even manages to rock the Brazilian giant.

Watch Alex Poatan and Tallison Xicão's training session.

🤯💥 Alex Pereira looks good while sparring taller No.15 Heavyweight Tallison Teixeira.

Looks like he will do just fine at Heavyweight. pic.twitter.com/pFZ2fymTOx

— Full Mount MMA (@MMAFullMount) May 12, 2026

Alex Poatan seeks third UFC belt.

Alex Poatán after defeat in UFC 313 (Photo: Instagram UFC Canada)

The first belt of Alex Poatán In the UFC, he competed in the middleweight division (up to 83,9 kg). On that occasion, the Brazilian faced his biggest rival, Israel adesanya, in the main fight of the UFC 281, and knocked out the Nigerian in the fifth round, accumulating his third victory over his opponent in combat sports. In the rematch, held in UFC 287Adesanya got his revenge, knocked out Poatan, and regained the title.

Exhausted from the weight cut, the Brazilian decided to move up a weight class. After winning Jan Blachowicz No. UFC 291, received the opportunity to compete for the light heavyweight belt against Jiri Prochazka, at UFC 295Poatan knocked out the Czech fighter, won the division title (up to 93 kg), and defended it three times.

Later, it was surpassed by Magomed Ankalayev No. UFC 313, but bounced back by reclaiming the throne at UFC 320. Now, faced with uncertainty about the return of Tom aspinall to defend the undisputed heavyweight title, Poatan face Cyryl Gane In his debut in the category, competing for the interim title.